The Licensing Sub-Committee of Cotswold District Council met on Thursday 22 October 2026 to consider a pre-application for a private hire vehicle licence for an Ariel Nomad. The committee approved the application, allowing the vehicle to be licensed as a private hire vehicle despite it not conforming to the council's standard policy on vehicle type, size, and design.

Pre-application for a Private Hire Vehicle Approved

The Licensing Sub-Committee approved the pre-application for an Ariel Nomad to be licensed as a private hire vehicle. This decision was made despite the vehicle not meeting the standard requirements outlined in Cotswold District Council's Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy¹. The committee determined that the vehicle was suitable for its intended purpose, considering passenger safety, access and egress, comfort, luggage capacity, and roadworthiness.

The applicant, James Henderson, trading as Nomad Events, explained that the business is an events company rather than a traditional taxi service. The Ariel Nomad would be used for bespoke experiences such as tours of the Cotswolds, corporate events, and special occasions, with many activities taking place on private land. The private hire licence was sought to enable the business to offer tours and transport experiences on public roads.

During the meeting, the committee inspected the vehicle and discussed various aspects of its suitability. Questions were raised regarding vehicle maintenance, with Mr. Henderson confirming that the vehicle was less than three years old and would be serviced by the manufacturer, Ariel. He also detailed a digital system used for pre-use inspections, including checks on lights, tyres, mileage, and oil levels.

Passenger safety and accessibility were key considerations. Mr. Henderson stated that mobility and physical fitness would be discussed during the booking process, and bookings could be refused if there were concerns about a passenger's ability to enter or exit the vehicle safely. Guidance on appropriate clothing would be provided, and wet weather clothing would be available. The committee also discussed luggage capacity, noting that while onboard storage was limited, arrangements could be made for additional luggage.

The applicant highlighted the unique nature of the Ariel Nomad, which allows access to green lanes and terrain not suitable for standard vehicles, offering a distinctive experience. Certified helmets and communication equipment would be available for passengers. The vehicle's design and handling were discussed, with assurances that it was built for both on-road and off-road use, with safety and stability as priorities.

Councillor Julia Judd, who had inspected the vehicle, commented on the ease of access and the comfort and space within the vehicle. The applicant also noted that modifications had been made to the seats, including padding and insulation, to enhance passenger comfort and warmth.

The Licensing Officer, Emma Sparkes, clarified that this was a pre-application for vehicle suitability and that any subsequent licence application would still be subject to the council's licensing requirements, including six-monthly MOT testing.

The Sub-Committee retired to deliberate and subsequently approved the application, concluding that the vehicle would provide a safe and suitable service. They noted that separate licensing applications would be required for the operator(s) and any future non-policy compliant vehicles.