Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Audrey Forrest, Daniel Hampsey, Fiona Howard, Mark Irvine, Paul Kennedy, Liz McCabe, Dougie Philand and Peter Wallace.

There were no declarations of interest.

Report by Head of Legal and Regulatory Support

The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting.  In line with recent legislation for Civic Government Hearings, the parties (and any representatives) were given the options for participating in the meeting today.  The options available were by video call, by audio call or by written submission.  For this hearing the Applicant opted to proceed by way of written submission and a copy of this was contained within Supplementary Agenda Pack 1 for this meeting.

The Chair then outlined the procedure that would be followed and invited the Committee Manager to read out the Applicant’s written submission.

APPLICANT’S WRITTEN SUBMISSION

Having gained over 10 years of experience as a professional driver within the Transport & Logistics sector, I am confident in my ability to provide safe, efficient, and courteous taxi services to the public. In-depth knowledge of local routes and traffic patterns in Oban & Lorn and surrounding areas, ensures punctual and smooth journeys for passengers. I am committed to upholding the highest standards of customer care, ensuring a pleasant and secure experience for all.

I am a dedicated and safety-focused driver, possessing a clean driving record and a strong understanding of the Highway Code and local traffic regulations. I am also familiar with vehicle maintenance checks, ensuring the vehicle is always in optimal condition for service.

With extensive knowledge of the local area, including landmarks, points of interest, and efficient routes, I can navigate effectively even without reliance on technology. I am a patient and adaptable driver, able to manage various situations and respond calmly to unexpected circumstances on the road. I am committed to providing a reliable and professional service to the community of Oban, Lorn and surrounding areas.

I am applying for a taxi car licence to provide a taxi for 6 passengers. There is a need in Oban for a 6 seater car as there are less than a handful, currently on the road operating. 

I will be working alongside Lorn Taxis, Oban to provide the taxi service.

If I was granted a Taxi car licence, this will give me a full time job working around the hours that I can to provide for my children and family.

DEBATE

Councillor Hampsey referred to her own personal experience of the Oban area and advised that normally she left her car further up town when catching a ferry for herself and her family.  She said that having a very large family she found it impossible to get a taxi that seated that many people.  She said that she would agree that there was definitely a need in the Oban and Lorn area for a larger taxi and that this would be good asset to the area.

Councillor Hardie said that based on the Applicant’s written submission he would like to grant this licence.

Councillor Green advised that he was likeminded.  He referred to the current taxi survey and advised that as it was 6 years old at this point, he was not inclined to give it substantial weight.  He confirmed that he would be happy to grant the licence based on the Applicant’s statement and the provision of taxi for larger groups.

DECISION

The Committee unanimously agreed to grant a Taxi Car Licence to Mr Lenehan and noted that he would receive written confirmation of this within 7 days.

(Reference: Report by Head of Legal and Regulatory Support, submitted)