NEW rules are set to be placed on who can or can’t get a taxi driver’s licence in Maldon.

Maldon District Council are set to endorse guidelines that will make it harder for those with criminal convictions to get licences to work at a taxi firm.

The rules, which will go before the council’s planning and licensing committee tomorrow, extend the time someone who has committed a crime has to wait until being granted a licence.

Under the old system, someone who had committed a serious criminal offence would have to wait five years before being considered, and three years after a less serious crime.

That is set to be increased to ten years for a serious criminal offence, which includes murder, manslaughter and robbery, and five years for less serious offences, which include criminal damage, affray and assault.

About the changes, a spokesman for Maldon District Council said: “The Council has had a criminal convictions guidelines for many years and is now considering a new draft policy based on the Local Government Association’s recommended template, thereby bringing the Council’s policy up to date.

"The draft policy provides Members with up to date guidance on criminal convictions to assist when making their decisions: it ensures that applicants are treated consistently and fairly. The policy also offers transparency to applicants, existing licence holders and the public around the process and decision-making."

Included in the new guidelines is a rule that means an EU licence will no longer be valid to apply for a licence, unless the applicant can prove they have been driving in the UK for one of the last three years.

That can be proved through proof of insurance, UK vehicle registration forms, or a history of employment as a UK driver.

In a report presented to the council, it is acknowledged that this may be subject to challenge legally.

The DVLA recognises the right of EU citizens to drive in the UK, including in a commercial capacity. The council’s senior solicitor said he believed that such a challenge could be defended on safety.