If you’ve been called to a Public Inquiry (PI) by the Traffic Commissioner, you’re likely feeling uncertain about what comes next. Whether you hold a vehicle operators licence, a restricted operators licence, or you’re in the middle of a PCO operator licence application, a PI can put your business under pressure. The good news? You don’t have to face it alone.
Blue Flag Transport Consulting specialises in helping transport operators navigate the complexities of a Public Inquiry. From preparation to representation, we provide tailored support to give you the best chance of success.
Understanding the Public Inquiry Process
A Public Inquiry is a formal hearing where the Traffic Commissioner reviews concerns about your business’s ability to meet licence requirements. These concerns could relate to safety, financial standing, record-keeping, or compliance with laws around driver hours.
Common Triggers for a Public Inquiry
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Poor vehicle maintenance records
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Failure to meet financial standing
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Non-compliance with working time regulations
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Inadequate tachograph management
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Lack of effective transport manager oversight
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Misrepresentation in an operator licence application
Why Public Inquiries Are a Serious Matter
The outcome of a Public Inquiry can significantly affect your business. It’s not just a warning—it’s a legal process with real consequences.
What You Could Lose
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Revocation of your operator licence
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Suspension of operations
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Reduction in vehicle numbers
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Disqualification of your transport manager
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Tight new conditions added to your licence
A negative outcome could also make future renewal or reinstatement efforts more difficult—not to mention the cost of lost business.
How Blue Flag Transport Consulting Can Help
At Blue Flag Transport Consulting, we understand the inner workings of the Traffic Commissioner’s office and the expectations surrounding operator compliance. Here’s how we can support you through your Public Inquiry.
Expert Case Review and Strategy Development
Before anything else, we take time to thoroughly review your case. Understanding the specific reasons behind your PI helps us build a clear and effective plan.
What We Do
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Examine your licence history and compliance records
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Analyse the PI letter and supporting evidence
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Identify weak areas that need immediate attention
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Develop a step-by-step action plan tailored to your case
This process gives you clarity and direction from the start.
Preparation of Evidence and Supporting Documents
One of the biggest reasons operators lose their case is lack of proper documentation. Our team ensures you’re well-prepared.
We Help You Gather:
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Maintenance schedules and inspection logs
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Financial standing evidence
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Driver CPC training records
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Tachograph and working hours data
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Internal audits and improvement plans
We also help draft written statements explaining the issues and the changes you’ve made since.
Professional Representation at the Inquiry
Facing the Traffic Commissioner can be intimidating. With Blue Flag Transport Consulting, you’ll have professional representation at the hearing to speak on your behalf.
Benefits of Having Us Represent You
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We understand how to present your case effectively
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We speak the language of compliance and regulation
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We help you avoid missteps or poor responses
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We ensure all your evidence is submitted correctly and on time
Our presence adds weight to your case and shows that you’re serious about compliance and improvement.
Help With Transport Manager Support or Replacement
In some cases, issues at a PI stem from a lack of effective transport management. We can help evaluate your current manager and assist with finding a qualified replacement if needed.
Our Support Includes:
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Reviewing your transport manager’s responsibilities and qualifications
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Recommending training to boost performance
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Sourcing external transport managers if necessary
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Ensuring proper records are kept going forward
A solid transport manager is crucial for any successful vehicle operators licence holder.
Post-Inquiry Compliance Planning
Winning your PI isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a new phase of higher compliance. We help you avoid repeating the same mistakes that brought you to a PI in the first place.
We Help You Build:
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A robust compliance management system
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Simple processes for tracking driver hours and vehicle checks
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Ongoing training and performance monitoring
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Digital tools for document storage and audit readiness
Our goal is to help you stay ahead of DVSA inspections and maintain your operator licence with confidence.
Help With Licence Reinstatement and Renewal
If your licence is suspended or revoked, don’t worry—restoration is possible. We can help you go through the steps needed for reinstatement or a new operator licence application.
What We Offer:
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Guidance on reapplying under the Operators Licence UK framework
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Support gathering financial and compliance documents
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Help with transport manager nomination
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Step-by-step management of the PCO operator licence application or standard licence reapplication
Real-Life Example: A Haulier Turned Things Around
One of our clients, a haulier in Manchester, faced a PI due to repeated failures in driver hour monitoring. Their restricted operators licence was at risk. We stepped in, audited their systems, replaced the transport manager, and trained staff on compliance. At the hearing, the Commissioner recognised the effort and allowed them to keep their licence with conditions.
Within six months, they passed a DVSA inspection with no issues and went on to expand their fleet.
The Value of Experience and Industry Insight
Unlike general consultants, we work exclusively with transport operators. That means we understand your day-to-day challenges—from managing a fleet to keeping up with changing laws.
Why Choose Us?
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Decades of experience in the UK transport sector
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Up-to-date knowledge of Operators Licence UK rules
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Clear, practical advice without legal jargon
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Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
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Friendly, down-to-earth consultants who speak your language
What It Costs to Get It Wrong
Some operators try to go through the Public Inquiry process alone. Unfortunately, that decision can cost far more in the long run.
Risks of Not Seeking Help:
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Losing your licence and your livelihood
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Damaging your company’s reputation
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Delays in renewal or restoration
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Increased operators licence cost due to reapplications and time off the road
Getting help from the start protects your business, your drivers, and your future.
Don’t take chances with your livelihood. Whether you’re facing a Public Inquiry, applying for a new operator licence, or working through a PCO operator licence application, Blue Flag Transport Consulting is here to help.
Contact us today to speak to a compliance expert. Let us help you prepare, protect your business, and win your Public Inquiry case with confidence.
Your road to reinstatement and success starts with one conversation.