STRETCH limo owners could soon find themselves subject to a licensing clamp down by Fenland District Council.

Kim Winterton, the council’s licensing regulatory officer, is suggesting that Fenland responds to concerns that some limos expose passengers “who are often young people, to potential risks.”

Ms Winterton wants the licensing committee to approve regulations which will control the use of stretch limos and other passenger carrying transport, such as ex ambulances, fire engines and military vehicles.

She says in a report to next Friday’s licensing committee: “Concern has been expressed by the media and the public about the fact that a number of these vehicles are not licensed”.

Those using the vehicles – such as prom goers or ‘hen’ groups- face possible dangers because the vehicles are “inadequately inspected” and have no restriction on the numbers carried. Drivers could also have criminal records, she says.

“The inclusion of these vehicles in the licensing regime will address these concerns,” said Ms Winterton.

“It is in the public interest that these vehicles be licensed to ensure that the vehicles are safe to carry passengers and that the drivers are fit and proper. For these vehicles to operate within the Fenland area they need to be brought within the private hire licensing regime to ensure public safety.”

If the committee agrees there will be a 12 week consultation period which will include speaking to owners of “event vehicles” and safety organisations will be asked for their views.

Draft new rules being studied by councillors gives definitions of stretched limos, lists documents needed to be inspected, and even includes a dress code for drivers.

“Drivers of special event vehicles will be required to observe a smart casual dress code, e.g. no jeans, no t shirts and no sportswear,” councillors will hear.