Private hire operator fined after using unlicensed people carrier for airport transfers despite only being licensed for a single small vehicle
- Perry Richardson
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
A private hire driver has been ordered to pay a £760 fine following a successful prosecution by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Licensing and Enforcement Officers.
Gareth Matthews who traded as Pickles Private Hire, appeared before Merthyr Magistrates’ Court last month and pleaded guilty to offences linked to the use of an unlicensed vehicle for commercial passenger journeys. Matthews was a licensed private hire driver and operator, but only for a single small vehicle.
The court heard that Matthews used a larger privately owned people carrier to undertake airport transfers for paying passengers, despite that vehicle not being licensed by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. Officers said the vehicle also gave the impression of being properly licensed, creating a risk that members of the public could be misled about its legal status.
The case began after the council received a complaint in 2023 alleging an unlicensed vehicle was being used for taxi work. According to the council, Matthews was formally reminded of the licensing rules and warned that further breaches could lead to prosecution.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council secures prosecution over unlicensed airport taxi journeys
Despite that warning, later complaints alleged the unlicensed minibus continued to be used for commercial journeys, including airport transfers promoted on social media. That prompted Licensing and Enforcement Officers to widen their enquiries and gather additional evidence.
As part of the investigation, officers requested information from Cardiff Airport and Bristol Airport. The data showed the vehicle had entered airport drop-off areas 47 times between 1 May and 14 July 2025, giving the council a detailed record of repeated use over a relatively short period.
During a PACE interview, Matthews admitted making what he described as a small number of trips. However, officers said he was unable to account for the much larger volume of airport entry evidence obtained during the investigation.
Councillor Robert Harris, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "This irresponsible and illegal behaviour will not be tolerated, as it jeopardises public safety, puts people at risk through uninsured journeys and breaks trust and confidence in our responsible businesses.
“By using an unlicensed vehicle, this individual bypassed the rigorous safety checks and insurance requirements that are there to protect every passenger.
“Our licensing team works tirelessly to ensure that all taxis in Rhondda Cynon Taf meet the highest standards. When people use 'cowboy cabs,' they are putting their lives on the line. Hackney Carriage taxis licensed within Rhondda Cynon Taf are black in colour and are provided with a Council issued plate on the rear showing the maximum number of passengers and a door sign on each side of the front doors. Drivers who are licensed by the Council are also issued with a badge which they must show customers when asked.
“I would always say if in doubt, don’t get it and I’d encourage anyone with information on unlicensed taxi drivers or unlicensed vehicles operating in Rhondda Cynon Taf to contact the Council’s Licensing Team.”
