Taxi driver loses licence appeal

Ashfield District Council has successfully defended an appeal made by a taxi driver following its decision to revoke his taxi licence.

Tasawar Hussain of Darnall, Sheffield had his taxi licence immediately removed by Ashfield District Council in September last year. This was following an investigation carried out into Hussain making inappropriate comments to a lone female passenger during a late night journey which left her feeling vulnerable.

At an appeal hearing this week, Mansfield Magistrates Court agreed with the Council’s original decision to revoke the drivers taxi licence due to public safety concerns. The driver was ordered to pay costs of £200 for the unsuccessful appeal and will continue to no longer pose a risk to those getting in an Ashfield District Council licensed taxi or private hire vehicle.

Cllr John Wilmott, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services said:

“The Licensing Authority puts the safeguarding of passengers and the public at the forefront of what we do, and we are extremely pleased that the Magistrates Court found the original decision to be fair and correct.

“As a Council we strive to have a good relationship with the local taxi trades. But if drivers act or behave in a manner which puts the safety and security of the public at risk, we will have no hesitation in taking the necessary appropriate enforcement actions.”