A Leicestershire haulier has had its licence revoked after failing to demonstrate financial standing and racking up an “appalling” test history.
Welldone Logistics ran nine HGVs and four trailers from two depots in Coalville and Swadlincote, but it applied to increase this to 22 and 30 in 2019, despite a lack of financial evidence being provided.
A public inquiry before the East of England traffic commissioner Richard Turfitt was scheduled after the operator subsequently provided evidence that showed it didn’t have enough funds to support one lorry.
In-house maintenance and compliance records also showed a failure to conduct brake tests and on one occasion, a failed roller brake test which was signed off as fit.
Between February 2018 and July 2019, the annual test initial pass rate stood at 57.14%, which the TC described as “appalling”.
In addition, director Marek Krawczynszyn was “unable to provide any real explanation or reassurance around the three roadworthiness prohibitions issued – one immediate and two delayed – one driver’s hours’ offence and two fixed penalty notices issued,” Turfitt said in a written decision.
“As I questioned the director on the prohibition notices, the response was one of: 'I do my best' or 'what more can I do?'
“There was a level of ignorance about basic guidance such as the guide to maintaining roadworthiness.
“He was unclear about brake testing requirements and admitted that he paid little attention to the content of PMI forms.
“He has certainly not read any of the statutory advice published on my behalf.
“He failed to notify me of changes in maintenance contractors and was vague about the possibility of another supplier.”
Summing up, the TC said the director did not give sufficient priority to compliance over the practical hurdles of everyday operations and the issues were allowed to continue for so long that he couldn’t trust him, and so he revoked the licence.
Turfitt added: “I have set a date which will allow the operator opportunity to present vehicles for PMI and to show that it can comply.
“That will be vital if it is to pursue a new application."
