TAXI drivers in Blackburn and Darwen convicted of a criminal offence will no longer have their licences reviewed automatically if changes to the system go through.

The borough's policy is to call all taxi and private hire drivers before the licensing committee after a court conviction in cases instigated by council solicitors.

But some councillors have expressed concern about the backlog of hearings and the pressure the rules place on work-loads.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has the option to review licences but can also decide not to take any action against convicted drivers.

The public protection sub-committee is being urged by officers to change the system. And if the changes are approved council officials will have the job of highlighting serious offences where further action needs to be taken.

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