Issue - meetings

It was noted that there had been two licensing hearings since April 2025, and officers continue to advise and respond to complaints about licensed premises and undertake inspections to ensure compliance with conditions.

Dual driver license figures were noted and it was highlighted that in the table 3.2, figures were provided to fill in the missing information. It was noted that there had been a more than 100% increase in the licensed vehicle fleet since June 2023, which was creating capacity issues at the Council’s testing station. It was noted that the test station was closed between May and the start of August 2025.

Members requested a breakdown of the reasons as to why vehicles had failed the tests, and were assured that this data could be provided.

Members asked about retests not taking place on the same day, noting that this was costing drivers money. It was noted that this was in relation to capacity at the test station and that the licensing team were working with the trade to assist with this. Members queried whether there was a correlation between having no retest fee and the delays and it was advised that there was not. It was also noted that data could be provided to the committee and it was assured that the team were working with the trade around capacity issues.

Members queried why the test station had been closed between May and August 2025. It was noted that allegations of malpractice had been made at the test centre and it was closed for the duration of the investigation. It was further noted that outcomes had been reached and the matter was considered closed, with steps delivered to prevent the issue again.

Members asked if things were getting better and it was noted that new procedures were improving the situation and were being managed in house to avoid any repeat issues.

Members queried whether the data covered the additional MOT guidelines and it was advised that it did.

Members asked about whether toilet facilities at the testing station were sufficient and it was noted that this would be picked up through feedback.

Members noted that previously at the test centre, the CCTV was not always operational and that time stamps had been incorrect in some cases. It was queried who monitors this. It was noted that the service were not aware of any of the allegations raised but that there were clear mechanisms to raise issues. It was highlighted that cameras did not have a recording function, they were just to view the centre in real time. Members noted concerns at this, and highlighted that if complaints were made, there were no ways to check the CCTV evidence. It was noted that this was a staffing issue and that there was a wider challenge of GDPR around recording workers in the workplace. It was noted that a wider consultation would have to take place on this.