Cleethorpes Coach Operator Loses License Over Safety Violations

A coach holiday operator based in Cleethorpes has lost its operating license due to significant breaches of safety regulations. The decision, announced by the Deputy Traffic Commissioner, Catherine Moxon, reflects a serious failure in maintenance and compliance practices at Hough’s of Lincolnshire, which has been under scrutiny for some time.

The inquiry into Hough’s operations revealed a troubling history of neglect. Moxon described the understanding of responsibilities by transport manager Rosina Hough as “shockingly poor.” She criticized Mrs. Hough’s dishonesty during the proceedings and noted a lack of professional development since 2014, which likely contributed to her inadequate grasp of compliance requirements.

In her report, published following a public inquiry that stemmed from an unannounced maintenance investigation earlier this year, Moxon stated, “The clear picture is that maintenance and compliance standards have been poor for a long time.” The Deputy Traffic Commissioner emphasized that there was no evidence of improvement in these areas aside from Mrs. Hough’s unsubstantiated assurances.

As a result of these findings, Moxon revoked Richard Hough‘s operating license, which he had held since 2006, citing issues related to “financial standing, good repute, and lack of professional competence.” Furthermore, Mrs. Hough has been indefinitely disqualified from her role as a transport manager, a position that requires certification and adherence to strict regulatory standards.

Customer concerns are rising as Hough’s continues to communicate unclear information about ongoing trips. The company’s phone line still carries an automated message indicating that all trips are running as scheduled, despite the significant operational changes.

In a move aimed at mitigating customer impact, PC Coaches, a rival company based in Lincoln, has stepped in to take over Hough’s Cleethorpes booking office from December 1, 2023. While PC Coaches has clarified that it is not acquiring Hough’s as a business and has no financial ties to it, it has committed to operating some of Hough’s December day trips.

Steve Bryce, the owner of PC Coaches, described this action as a gesture of goodwill, stating that it would come at a loss to his business. “We will operate some of the remaining Hough’s day trips in December, with no financial gain to ourselves,” Bryce remarked. He added that the company would keep customers updated regarding their individual bookings once they gain access to Hough’s records.

As the fallout from this decision continues, customers of Hough’s are left in limbo, facing uncertainty regarding their holiday plans. Attempts to contact Mr. and Mrs. Hough for further comment have been unsuccessful, leaving many to await clarity on their travel arrangements.

The situation underscores the critical importance of compliance in the transportation industry, where public safety must remain a top priority.