A hackney carriage driver has had their appeal against the Council's decision to revoke their driver's licence dismissed by Guildford Magistrates' Court.

The Council revoked the driver's licence in July 2019 for a number of reasons, including not having a valid MOT for their vehicle, lack of vehicle maintenance, false declaration, non-compliance with licensing conditions and failure to comply with a statutory notice to return their licence plates. The Council also received a number of complaints about their standard of driving.

The driver appealed the decision but failed to comply with the directions of the Court and serve evidence. At a hearing at Guildford Magistrates' Court on 4 December, a Judge refused the driver's application to adjourn the appeal, and as the driver had presented no evidence, dismissed the appeal. The driver was also ordered to pay the Council's costs of £2,137.

Mike Smith, Licensing Team Leader at Guildford Borough Council, says: "We are pleased that the court dismissed this appeal. We do not take the decision to revoke a licence lightly, but we have a duty to protect public safety and ensure that residents, visitors and those who work in the borough can be confident when they take one of our licensed taxis that their journey will be safe and secure.

"If you are enjoying a night out with friends and family this Christmas, take one of our licensed taxis from a rank or book a private hire vehicle through a Guildford licensed operator to help you get home safely. Guildford taxis and private hire vehicles are easy to recognise with their distinctive teal colour vehicle or door sticker, so you can be confident you are taking a properly licensed, safe vehicle this festive season.

"In order to ensure that the public receive the best possible service, all taxis are fitted with meters and accept card payments so you can be confident you will charged fairly and can pay conveniently. However if you do have any comments about the standards, then please let us know by using our complain about a taxi driver or taxi company online form.  Please make sure you quote the licence number of the vehicle."

Guildford town centre has recently been awarded Purple Flag status for the sixth time for providing evenings and nights out that are safe, vibrant and varied. It remains the only town in the county, and one of around 70 in the UK, to hold the award. The taxi trade helps contribute to a safe night out in Guildford.