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Former Tamworth Council licensed taxi driver forced to pay fine for smoking in cab
A former licensed taxi driver has been fined after smoking in a Hackney Carriage licensed by Tamworth Borough Council.
Stephen Turner smoked in the vehicle on 30 May 2025, when he held a taxi driver’s licence with the council. Smoking in the cab was an offence under Section 7 of the Health Act 2006, which covers smoking in smoke-free places.
Turner was initially issued with a fixed penalty notice. After it was not paid, the council decided to prosecute. The case was heard at Cannock Magistrates’ Court through the Single Justice Procedure on 9 June 2026. The offence was proved.
Turner was fined £60 and ordered to pay £150 in costs and a £24 victim surcharge, bringing the total to £234. He is no longer a taxi driver licensed by Tamworth Borough Council.
Councillor David Foster, portfolio holder for environmental sustainability, recycling and waste at Tamworth Borough Council, said: “People using licensed taxis should be able to expect a clean and safe environment when they make their journey.
“Licensed drivers have a responsibility to comply with the law and the standards expected of them. Smoking in a licensed vehicle is not acceptable, and where offences are identified the council can take appropriate action.
“In this case, a fixed penalty notice was initially issued but was not paid, leading the council to pursue prosecution. The successful prosecution should serve as a clear reminder that these requirements need to be taken seriously.
“We would encourage all licensed drivers to make sure they understand and follow the rules that apply to their vehicles.”
