Licence application fails after PI no-show

A traffic commissioner (TC) found that a Southampton-based sole trader had been an illegal operator of HGVs for 10 years.

Charles Drain applied for a standard national licence authorising the use of one vehicle from his Manor Farm base in Dibden and he explained to the Office of the TC that he had previously held a partnership licence, but his business partner had moved away from the area back in 2012.

He was then put in touch with a proposed transport manager called Corrina Jenkinson and they came to an arrangement for him to specify his vehicle on her licence.

However, in December 2021 Jenkinson said she wasn’t renewing her licence and Drain would have to apply for his own, which led to this application.

In his application, the operator said he would like interim authority and added: “I have had my business for many years and wish to continue operating in a safe manner whilst awaiting a decision on a full licence”.

TC Kevin Rooney called a public inquiry (PI); however, no-one attended for the operator.

In his written decision, the TC said: “Mrs Jenkinson has notified that she is no longer associated with the application. No finances have been provided. There is no transport manager. Section 13 fails to be satisfied on both counts. The application is refused.”

Rooney added: “Absent an explanation from Mr Drain, I find that he has been an illegal operator of a heavy goods vehicle from 2012 until 2022 and the application is refused.”