Horner licence curtailed
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• North Eastern Deputy LA Brian Horner has reduced the vehicle authorisation and duration of Hallam Freight's 0-licence, after warning the firm that the "writing is on the wall."
Homer said that there had been a constant stream of prohibition notices since the licence was renewed in 1988.
A vehicle examiner told the Sheffield disciplinary inquiry that an unscheduled visit to the company's premises earlier this month showed that the situation had improved. Horner said that it was a classic case of closing the stable door after the horse had bolted.
Director Philip Cooper said the company had grown too fast and matters had got out of control. The fleet had increased from 14 to 24 vehicles between 1988 and 1990. Turnover in 1989 had been £1.2m. However, there was an operational loss in 1990.
The fleet had since been reduced to 11 vehicles and 18 trailers, giving the company more control; it had now returned to profit. Steps had also been taken to rectify a continuing problem over the system for drivers reporting defects, and improvements to the maintenance facilities were planned.
Homer reduced the licence authorisation from 25 vehicles and 18 trailers to 15 vehicles and 18 trailers and cut the duration so that it now expires at the end of March, instead of July 1993.