The Licensing and Regulatory Committee of Sefton Council met on Monday, 10 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including changes to the driver convictions policy, local licensing fees and charges, and the extension of the Public Spaces Protection Order for dog control. Decisions were made to amend the driver convictions policy and to endorse the proposed fees and charges for 2024/2025. The committee also recommended extending the dog control order for another three years.

Revised Licensed Driver Convictions Policy

The committee reviewed two petitions from Joseph Johnson and Frank West, representatives of the Hackney and Private Hire Trade. The petitions requested amendments to the driver convictions policy, specifically regarding the disqualification period for using a handheld device and the wording related to blood sample testing following a roadside stop. The committee discussed whether neighbouring authorities had raised objections and considered the national standard of the policy. Joseph Johnson and Frank West presented their petitions in person. The committee resolved to note the petitions.

Following this, the committee considered a report from the Assistant Director of Place (Highways and Public Protection) requesting approval for changes to the driver convictions policy in line with national statutory standards. The discussion focused on violent offences and the use of mobile phones while driving. Councillor Waterfield moved, and Councillor Kelly seconded, that the proposed changes be agreed. The motion was carried by 10 votes to 1.

The proposed changes to the Council’s current convictions policy be agreed. - Councillor Waterfield

Local Licensing Fees and Charges

The committee reviewed a report from the Assistant Director of Place (Highways and Public Protection) seeking approval for the fees and charges for Local Licensing Services for 2024/2025. The proposed fees and charges were endorsed and approved by the committee.

Continuation of the Public Spaces Protection Order - Dog Control

The committee considered a report on the extension of the existing Public Spaces Protection Order Dog Control 2021 for a further three years. The discussion included the need for relevant education, the consultation process, the use of pitches, enforcement resources, and CCTV. The committee requested a detailed report on the locations where fixed penalty notices for dog control have been issued. The committee recommended that the council approve the extension of the order.

The Council be recommended to give approval for the extension of the Public Spaces Protection Order Dog Control 2021 for a further three years. - Assistant Director of Place (Highways and Public Protection)

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes of Previous Meeting and the Public reports pack 10th-Jun-2024 18.30 Licensing and Regulatory Committee.