Owner also disqualified from acting as transport manager until new CPC exam is passed. Earlier this week we looked at the issue of brake testing. See GOV.UK’s heavy vehicle brake test best practice guidance here. Unfortunately, it’s something traffic commissioners still have to deal with at public inquiry. Take this case… Read more »
A tale of two skip operators
Every operator has their own way of doing things – even those working in the same industry. When it comes to compliance, while there might be different approaches, the basic requirements are the same. Whether you’re operating two vehicles or 200. Those who break the rules often find themselves at… Read more »
Untrustworthy operator who ignored all the warning signs has application refused
Traffic Commissioner says persistent non-compliance with the law means operator is unfit to hold a licence. The operator licensing regime is one built around trust and honesty between the traffic commissioners and operators. The regulators need absolute certainty that the people they’re licensing can be trusted to carry out their… Read more »
CPC holder’s attitude towards role proves costly
Deputy Traffic Commissioner says TM needs time away to recognise failings. Having the right knowledge is a key part of being a competent transport manager. But it’s also vital to have the right attitude as well. That’s the message Deputy Traffic Commissioner, Laura Thomas, promoted in a recent public inquiry case…. Read more »
Van thieves thwarted by Mercedes PRO connect
Van rental specialist Eastgate Commercial Ltd has recovered a stolen Mercedes-Benz Sprinter thanks to the vehicle’s cutting-edge connectivity and a quick-thinking Dealer. Ciceley Commercials traced the Sprinter by using the Mercedes PRO connect software, which is fitted as standard in the third-generation model range that hit the market last… Read more »
Transport manager disqualified after undermining the operator licensing system
Traffic Commissioner said the loss of repute was unavoidable with significant issues of trust raised. Trust and honesty are at the foundation of the operator licensing regime. A recent public inquiry saw that trust break down beyond repair. A transport manager learned the hard way recently that responsibilities of that role… Read more »
Licence revocation for operator who made poor judgements and buried his head in the sand
Traffic Commissioner says operator gained an unfair competitive advantage when no transport manager was employed. As industry regulators, the traffic commissioners promote safe, fair, efficient and reliable passenger and goods transport. Taking proportionate regulatory action against non-compliant operators in public inquiries ensures only those fit to hold a licence can… Read more »
Lorry drivers sentenced to 18 months jail for Tabacco smuggling
Two lorry drivers, who tried to smuggle more than 1.5 million cigarettes into the UK hidden between bags of wood pellets, have been jailed after an investigation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Marin Vasilev, 40, of Willingham, Cambridge, was caught attempting to bring in cigarettes worth £444,641 in unpaid… Read more »
TC turns down licence bid from haulier who used names of legitimate operators to get work
Joan Aitken criticises applicant who produced false documents to suggest he had a valid licence. Traffic commissioners take their role as gatekeepers to the haulage, bus and coach industries very seriously. They know that compliant operators like you expect unscrupulous practices to be dealt with – because they can affect your… Read more »
Second jail term for heavy haulage business owner after failing to pay back £75K
A Birmingham fraudster has been jailed for a second stretch of 20 months for failing to pay back the £75,000 owing from a two-year tax fraud. Craig McDougall was originally sentenced to four years in prison for evading tax by lying about the takings from his haulage business, after an… Read more »
