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Posted on the 24th April 2025 in PHTM News
UNION SLAMS SHEFFIELD CITY COUNCIL'S RECKLESS PERMANENT PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE SIGNAGE PLAN
A trade union has strongly condemned Sheffield City Council's proposal to mandate permanent signage on private hire vehicles, labelling it "expensive and reckless."
The GMB union warns the plan could confuse the public, endanger drivers and damage vehicles.
Nasar Raoof, the GMB's taxi trade representative for Yorkshire, voiced significant concerns, stating: "They don't need to be permanent, unless the council is wishing to take on the cost of damage and repair to the vehicle. It is a draconian measure, and it is not proportionate."
The council defended its position, citing alignment with the Department for Transport's best practice guidance and noting that the proposal includes removing the requirement for operator signage on rear doors.
However, Mr Raoof, a former cabbie, argued the permanent signs pose a security risk, explaining: "[The plan] would mean being identified as a driver even when you're off duty with your family. There will be huge consequences."
He referenced past incidents of abuse against drivers, including one union member whose window was smashed during riots.
An online petition opposing the plan has garnered over 300 signatures, with signatories reporting incidents of vandalism such as having eggs and stones thrown at their vehicles. The petition calls for the council to abandon the permanent signage idea and instead consult with drivers on a less intrusive, non-permanent magnetic sign option.
Mr Raoof dismissed the council's justification based on safeguarding, asserting: "The problems have been addressed, and the customer always has the option of ringing the operator and speaking to someone as well."
He further argued against "collective punishment of thousands of PHV drivers because of one or two bad apples," highlighting that app-based bookings already provide customers with driver and vehicle information for verification.
Councillor Joe Otten, chair of the waste and street scene policy committee, acknowledged the concerns raised, adding: "Our job now is to analyse what people have told us, both taxi drivers and the people who use taxis."
He confirmed that a report on the feedback would be presented to the council's waste and street scene committee in early June. The future of the permanent signage plan now hinges on the council's review of these responses.
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