Cleethorpes Coach Operator Loses License Over Safety Breaches

A coach trips operator based in Cleethorpes has lost its operating license due to significant breaches of safety regulations, raising concerns over road safety. The Traffic Commissioner, responsible for regulating bus and heavy goods vehicle operators, determined that Hough’s of Lincolnshire, run by Richard and Rosina Hough, posed a serious risk to public safety.

In a recent public inquiry, Deputy Traffic Commissioner Catherine Moxon described Mrs. Hough’s understanding of her responsibilities as a transport manager as “shockingly poor.” This inquiry followed an unannounced maintenance investigation that revealed numerous compliance and maintenance issues within the company. The findings led to the conclusion that Hough’s had been a long-standing danger to both passengers and other road users.

The inquiry highlighted a range of deficiencies including inadequate maintenance of the fleet, poor record-keeping, and insufficient management of wheels and tires. In her report, Moxon criticized Mrs. Hough for lacking the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the transport activities of the operator. She noted, “The clear picture is that maintenance and compliance standards have been poor for a long time.”

On November 29, 2023, Moxon revoked Richard Hough’s license, which he had held since 2006, citing issues related to “financial standing, good repute, and lack of professional competence.” Additionally, Rosina Hough was indefinitely disqualified from her role as a transport manager due to her “lack of credibility and dishonesty” during the hearing.

This decision has left Hough’s customers in a state of uncertainty, as the company continues to operate with an automated message stating that all trips are running as scheduled. Many customers are concerned that their travel plans may be jeopardized, given the lack of clear communication from the company.

In response to this disruption, PC Coaches, a Lincoln-based rival, has stepped in to assist affected customers. From December 1, 2023, PC Coaches will take over Hough’s booking office in Cleethorpes. Although the firm clarified that it is not taking over Hough’s business, it will operate some of Hough’s December day trips as a goodwill gesture, despite the financial loss it may incur.

PC Coaches emphasized, “What we are doing is taking over the bookings office in Cleethorpes from December 1, and this will be rebranded to sell our own range of holidays and day trips.” They confirmed that they would not be able to address specific questions regarding existing Hough’s bookings or refund requests until they gain access to the office and related information.

As the situation develops, customers booked on Hough’s December trips can expect updates regarding their individual booking statuses once PC Coaches has taken control. The inquiry’s findings underscore the critical importance of compliance in the transport industry and the potential consequences of neglecting safety standards.