Taxi Policy Consultation

Overview

We’d like to hear what you think about our draft policy on how we protect public safety through the licensing of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire operators, drivers, and vehicles.

Hackney Carriage (Taxi) and Private Hire services have an important role to play in our local transport system. They are able to provide services in situations where public transport is either not available (for example in rural areas, or outside “normal” hours of operation such as in the evenings or on Sundays), and/or for those with mobility difficulties.

The sole consideration in relation to the licensing of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles is public safety. This includes the safety of drivers, operators, vehicle proprietors and their staff as well as the users of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles, and the wider public. The public must have confidence in the safety of Hackney Carriages and Private Hire vehicles as a form of transport and as a consequence the highest standards will be expected from all applicants and licensees.

This policy is intended to enable the Council to provide a robust licensing regime which enables the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire trades to provide the best possible service to the public with the overriding aim of maintaining and improving public safety.