GV9 'pattern change' leads to curtailment
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• A Walsall haulage company which suffered a "pattern change" regarding the number of prohibition notices attracted by its vehicles this year had its operator's licence curtailed under Section 69 by the West Midland LA, Mr John Else, in Birmingham last week.
It was stated that this year certain of the vehicles operated by the company, D. Horton (Walsall) Ltd, had been issued with more than the usual number of prohibition notices. Immediate GV9s were issued on May 7 and July 6 and several delayed prohibitions had also been imposed since January. In all, the company was authorized to operate 12 vehicles and four trailers, of which 10 vehicles and four trailers were in possession.
Giving evidence, Mr D. Horton, managing director, told the LA that he had no idea why there had been an increase in the number of prohibition notices imposed on the company's vehicles as an excellent maintenance system was operated. The company had all the necessary facilities to maintain its vehicles and employed a staff of six mechanics, two of whom worked evening shifts. Road Haulage Association maintenance records were used and, as well as maintaining its own vehicles, the company also maintained vehicles operated by other haulage firms.
Mr Else said he was satisfied that no statement of intent had been bridged. However, he felt that some penalty was necessary and curtailed the 0 licence for a period of two months by removing the margin of two vehicles which had not been acquired.