1  Applications

At least 28 days notice must be given to the Council to process the application.  Business must no commence before the licence has been processed and issued by the Council

Applications for licences shall be made on forms provided by the Council and the period of licence will normally be 5 years but the Council reserves the right to issue licences for a shorter period should an application be received during the term of a 5 year period.  Licenses issued after the 1st November 2006 will expire on the 31st October 2011.

2  Planning Permission

Applicants should ensure that they have any necessary planning permission required for the premises from which they are to operate.  If this is not produced on first application then the issue of the licence will be delayed until the licence application has been referred to the Councils Development Control Section.  The Development control section can be contacted by telephoning 01225 477000.  Please note the relevant permission must be submitted to the Licensing Section in writing.

3  Documents

The following documents will be required on a first application for an Operators Licence:

1  Completed application form.

2  Evidence of planning consent or a letter from Development Control confirming that premises are authorised for such use.

3  Fees 2008/2009

4  Lapsed Licences

Any application to renew a licence received after the current one has expired will be treated as a new application.  If a higher fee is in force for new applications than for renewals then that higher fee shall be payable.

5  Contentious or objected to applications

Contentious or objected to applications will be referred to the relevant Council Committee for determination.

6  Knowledge of Legislation & Local Council Licence Conditions.

It is a matter for each individual to ensure that they are familiar with all the relevant legislation including the conditions of licence.

7  Appeals Procedure

Any person aggrieved by the refusal of the district council to grant a private hire/hackney carriage drivers licence may appeal to a Magistrates’ Court.  Appeals must be brought within 21 days.  A further right of appeal lies to the Crown Court from the Magistrates Court.

Any person aggrieved by any condition attached to the grant of the licence may appeal to a Magistrates’ Court.  Appeals must be brought within 21 days and further right of appeal lies to the Crown Court from the Magistrates Court.

NB:  It is an offence to give false information when applying for a licence.