Out-of-area Wolverhampton PHV driver ordered to pay over £3,000 after being caught plying-for-hire

A City of Wolverhampton Council licensed private hire vehicle (PHV) driver was caught unlawfully accepting passengers without the required insurance, leading to his conviction on 14 March.

The illegal activity came to light during an enforcement operation on 27 November 2022, conducted jointly by Telford & Wrekin Council and West Mercia Police. The driver, Mr Gurpreet Singh, was apprehended outside Pussycats Nightclub in Tan Bank, Wellington, after he accepted a fare from undercover officers without prior booking, a clear breach of private hire regulations.

As a result of his actions, Singh has been ordered to pay a fine of £346, alongside costs of £2,525 to the local authority and a Victims Surcharge of £138. The total sum of £3,009 is due within 28 days. Furthermore, eight penalty points will be added to his DVLA licence.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of local councils and police forces to ensure the safety and legality of private hire practices, underscoring the importance of adhering to the stringent regulations governing the sector.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes & Enforcement, Councillor Richard Overton (Lab) said: “Operations like this are just a small part of the work carried out by our Safer Telford teams as part of the council wider ambition to make Telford and Wrekin a cleaner and safer place to live.

“Thanks to all partners involved for their efforts in bringing this case to justice.” 

Councillor Craig Collingswood, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change for City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “City of Wolverhampton Council is committed to supporting Telford & Wrekin Council with these enforcement exercises. Public safety is of paramount importance. As a result of the court hearing, we will now be reviewing Mr Singh’s driver’s licence. As a result, his licence may be revoked.”