Members of the public can have their say on proposed changes to taxi licensing rules. Durham County Council has launched a review of its Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy and is asking taxi operators, drivers and passengers what they think about a range of proposals, including:
• Signs displayed on the roofs of taxis (vehicle top signs).
• New, more stringent safeguarding measures for drivers and passengers.
• Age policy for vehicles and engine emission standards.
• Suspension of licensed vehicles if the owner/driver fails to attend the scheduled vehicle test.
• Numeracy and literacy testing for new drivers.
A 12-week consultation is now underway and residents are encouraged to take part before it ends on Wednesday 26 August.
Joanne Waller, head of environment, health and consumer protection at Durham County Council, said: “Our current policy was introduced in 2011 and is due for review. This will make sure the policy continues to support both the taxi trade and passengers in the county.
“We would encourage anyone with an interest to have their say on the proposals during this consultation.”
For more information and to have your say on the consultation visit www.durham.gov.uk/consultation or call the licensing team on 03000 261 016.