Purpose

1.1       It is recommended
that all councils have a taxi policy that sets out the standards
expected of licence holders and provides a procedure for the
approval of drivers, vehicles, and operators.
1.2       The use of hackney
carriages and private hire vehicles presents a number of risks to
the public, and our policy aims to ensure they are protected whilst
ensuring that the sector remains sustainable, competitive and
viable, particularly when compared to the policies implemented by
other councils.
1.3       The current policy
was approved in April 2022.  There are
several areas which now need updating in response to the
publication of revised statutory guidance and best
practice.  This presents an opportunity
to make considerable policy improvements to the regulation of taxis
locally that will benefit the public, licence holders and the
council.  

Decision

 1.1      To approve the adoption of
a new taxi policy to come into force on 1 April 2025.