Consultation on taxi vehicle safety launched in Pendle

Councillor David Whipp, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “The safety of passengers and drivers is our top priority for Pendle’s taxis. 

“Anyone who uses taxis in Pendle is being asked to give their views and taxi drivers and taxi operators in the borough are also encouraged to comment.”

Safety proposals which are being put forward include:

• Existing vehicles continue until their 12-year age limit but existing and new euro 6, hybrid, electric or wheelchair accessible vehicles will have no age limit. Any new vehicle application will only be accepted for euro 6, hybrid, electric or wheelchair accessible vehicles.
• An annual MOT will be required which can be issued from any garage and a six-monthly MOT for any vehicles over six years old. Any vehicle less than six years old which fails an MOT on any dangerous or major items will require an MOT every six months.
• Vehicles with three MOT failures classified as dangerous or major items over a rolling two-year period will result in the owner being called to the Taxi Licensing Committee.
• Daily vehicle checks will be required either by an approved app or a paper check. Failure to carry out a check, comply with what is recorded on the check or being untruthful will result in the driver having their licence suspended.
• A sign will be displayed incorporating the licence number, pre-booking information and how customers can make a complaint to the Council.

Councillor Lola Whipp, Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Local Planning and Infrastructure, said: “We initially proposed daily vehicle checks in line with Government guidance and suggested an innovative way of doing that via an online app.

“In December 2024, the rollout of the app was paused to allow further discussions with the taxi trade.

“Working with trade representatives we made the proposed changes to the Taxi Licensing Policy including each taxi having a daily mechanical check.

“If you use hackney carriages or private hire taxis, work in the taxi trade or are involved in the industry in any way, tell us what you think about the updated Policy.”

The draft Taxi Licensing Policy can be viewed on Pendle Borough Council’s website www.pendle.gov.uk/taxi 

You can comment by emailing taxi.licensing@pendle.gov.uk or writing to Assistant Director, Planning & Regulatory Services, Town Hall, Nelson, BB9 7LG.

The consultation closes at 5pm on Wednesday 9 July.