Licence Revoked: SBR Foxhills Ltd Disqualified for Indeterminate Period

Operator: SBR Foxhills Ltd

Licence: OF2065193 (Restricted Licence – 2 vehicles, 2 trailers)

Director: Matthew James Berry

Region: Eastern

Decision Date: 2 October 2025

Outcome: Licence revoked and director disqualified indefinitely

What Happened

SBR Foxhills Ltd failed to appear at a Public Inquiry after being called before the Traffic Commissioner to explain serious compliance and criminal matters including an Environmental Agency prosecution for running an illegal waste site at Thorpe Farm, Skendleby.

The operator ignored clear directions to submit maintenance, financial and compliance evidence before the hearing. No documentation or representations were received.

Criminal Convictions

In May 2025, both the company and Director Matthew Berry were convicted at Lincoln Crown Court for operating a non-exempt waste site without a permit, contrary to the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016.

• Company fine: £20,000 + £29,626 costs

• Director: 36-week suspended sentence + £5,000 costs + £45,000 confiscation order

Judge Sjolin Knight described Berry’s behaviour as “arrogant and bullish,” noting his abuse towards Environment Agency officers and total disregard for environmental responsibilities.

Traffic Commissioner’s Findings

The Commissioner found multiple breaches under Sections 26(1)(b), (c), (e), (h) and 28 of the Goods Vehicles (Licensing of Operators) Act, including:

• Failure to notify convictions and material changes

• Lack of financial standing

• False or misleading statements to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner

• Loss of fitness to hold a licence

Given the gravity of the offences and the operator’s complete lack of engagement, both SBR Foxhills Ltd and Mr Berry were disqualified from holding or obtaining any operator’s licence indefinitely.

Why It Matters

This decision highlights that criminal conduct, even outside transport operations, can destroy an operator’s good repute. Environmental offences in particular carry heavy weight, as they show disregard for regulation, safety, and public trust — all key principles of the licensing system.

Failure to co-operate with the Traffic Commissioner, ignoring instructions, or missing hearings only worsens outcomes.

The TC’s written decision makes it clear that a licence is a privilege, not a right — and must be backed by integrity and accountability.

Lessons for Operators

✅ Always disclose new convictions, financial issues, or major business changes immediately.

✅ Co-operate fully with DVSA and the Office of the Traffic Commissioner.

✅ Maintain accurate maintenance and compliance records.

✅ Remember: your conduct as a company director — both in and outside transport — directly affects your fitness to hold an O-Licence.

Source: Traffic Commissioner for the East of England – SBR Foxhills Ltd Decision (OF2065193)