Cross border Wolverhampton private hire vehicle checks in Blackpool finds unlicensed father working under son’s licence

Image credit: WV Public Protection

The City of Wolverhampton's licensing team took action against a father and son in a coordinated operation at Blackpool North train station, alongside Blackpool Council Licensing and British Transport Police Greater Manchester.

Two individuals were identified for falling foul to licensing rules. The first individual was an unlicensed driver, while the second, his son, permitted the use of his private hire vehicle (PHV) for unauthorised passenger pick-ups. Both are to be summonsed for their actions.

Simultaneously, Wolverhampton licensing officers carried out checks in Preston, ensuring compliance with licensing regulations.

This issue of cross-border driver activity, where licensed drivers operate outside their designated areas, forces authorities to extend their enforcement efforts beyond their usual boundaries. In this case, Wolverhampton licensing officers had to travel to Blackpool and Preston to ensure compliance with regulations. This practice is not just limited to Wolverhampton but is a growing trend as more drivers seek opportunities in regions with potentially more lucrative markets.

A City of Wolverhampton Public Protection spokesperson said on 27 July: “Compliance were also at Blackpool North train station last night with Blackpool Council Licensing and British Transport Police Greater Manchester checking vehicles/drivers.

“Two people to be summonsed, one an unlicensed driver, the other his son who allowed Dad to drive his PHV picking up passengers!”