The decision followed an application from the Boston HCA, which warned price hikes were vital to keep businesses afloat amid rising fuel prices, staffing costs and insurance premiums.

The service is now live across key areas where FonaCAB operates, including Belfast, Lisburn, Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus, Craigavon, and Banbridge.

Deputy Samantha Gleave, had raised concerns over whether current rules could be simplified to reduce costs, improve flexibility, boost the night-time economy and increase service availability.

The proposed rules mark a shift away from traditional vehicle age limits towards emissions-based standards, aligning with Department for Transport guidance.

Operating as part of the official taxi and private hire service for Norwich Airport, the high-end vehicle is now in full-time service and available for executive hire on request.

Dilshad Ahmed, from Longton, committed the offence on 26 December 2025 at a temporary match day taxi pick-up point at Trentham Lakes.

Gary Bohanna, 51, launched the unprovoked attack on driver Emmanuel Okinlola after being picked up from a Kirkdale pub on the afternoon of 15 December last year.

The council’s Director of Place, Jon Dyson, presented a report outlining why the local authority considered the unnamed applicant not to be a "fit and proper person" to hold a driver's licence.