Situation
We represented a building materials haulage company at a public inquiry in Golborne, North West traffic area.
The company faced a public inquiry due to significant maintenance issues uncovered by a DVSA assessment. They had also failed to keep promises made during a previous inquiry, risking licence revocation and business closure.
Action taken
We worked with the business owner to identify and address the problems. He recommended corrective steps to reassure the Traffic Commissioner.
The Traffic Commissioner raised concerns, noting it was the company’s second inquiry in two years. We presented the operator’s evidence, highlighting their difficult personal circumstances in 2020 and the severe impact of losing the licence.
Outcome
We proposed continuing the business with a new transport manager and additional commitments. The Commissioner, although concerned about compliance issues, accepted the operator’s explanations and honest admissions. The transport manager lost his good repute, but the licence was allowed to continue with a suspension and a reduced fleet. A grace period was granted to find a new transport manager.
Conclusion
Despite the high risk of revocation, our effective representation helped the company retain its licence. This case shows that with proper preparation and presentation, even companies with regulatory issues can avoid licence revocation.
If you have been called to a Traffic Commissioner’s public inquiry and need expert legal advice, call us on 0115 910 6239 or email info@keepmeontheroad.co.uk.
This case study first appeared on the Rothera Bray website. our parent law firm.