Council leads on operation to catch unlawful drivers
Dudley borough taxi drivers who have flouted agreements on school transport are facing tough action, following a sting operation led by Dudley Council this week.
The local authority undertook an operation in conjunction with West Midlands Police, DVLA and DVSA on Monday 21 October.
Taxis taking children to a special school in the borough were ordered for a spot check in the area, with council officers, police and compliance officers from DVSA in attendance.
Dudley Council has contracts with a number of providers, who are paid to transport children with additional needs to and from school under a stringent agreement with the authority.
Most of the drivers stopped during the operation were compliant, but some drivers were found to have not been meeting their contractual obligations on the day.
Drivers who were found to not be meeting the requirements included a vehicle with corroded chassis, a vehicle with no working lights on the rear, two illegal number plates, some drivers not having badges with them and one driver with no insurance.
The individuals and companies concerned could now face penalties including loss of contracts, endorsements on their licences, and possibly criminal proceedings.
Councillor David Stanley, cabinet member for children’s services, said:
“Safety of our children and young people is paramount, and our school transport contractors must adhere to the stringent terms of our agreement.
“The majority of drivers and vehicles were found to have the standards expected, and I would like to thank them for their patience.
“Sadly, there were a small number of drivers who were found to be contravening their licence. These individuals will now face the ramifications.”
Jonathan Poole, Centre Manager at Merry Hill, said:
“We are pleased to have supported the council for its vehicle-check, which was hosted at Merry Hill this month.
“These checks are important for continuously ensuring services across the community operate safely, and that vulnerable children and adults across Dudley are protected."