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Posted on the 22nd July 2025 in PHTM News
TAXI CRACKDOWN IN CHESTER ENSURES COMPLIANCE AND PASSENGER SAFETY
Police in Chester, in collaboration with local and regional councils, conducted a targeted operation on Friday, July 11, to ensure the safety and compliance of taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) operating in the city. The initiative, dubbed Operation Recordings, saw 53 vehicles stopped, with several significant issues identified.
The operation, spearheaded by the Chester Beat Management Team and the Special Constabulary, aims to guarantee that taxis are "safe, correctly licensed, and compliant with all regulations," according to authorities.
This recent push involved partnerships with taxi licensing teams from Cheshire West and Chester Council, as well as colleagues from Flintshire and Wolverhampton, highlighting a collaborative effort to uphold public safety standards.
The checks led to three taxis being immediately taken off the road due to defects, posing potential risks to passengers and other road users. Additionally, seven rectification notices were issued, requiring drivers to address specific issues with their vehicles.
A Traffic Offence Report (TOR) was filed against one driver for defective tyres, a serious safety concern. Officers also provided advice to 12 drivers who failed to display mandatory 'no smoking' stickers within their vehicles.
Inspector James Wilson underscored the critical importance of these operations, stating: "Countless people use taxis to get around Chester and this is why we work alongside our partner agencies to make sure the vehicles and drivers transporting these individuals are correctly licensed and compliant."
He further emphasised that the operations send "a clear message that taxi drivers must comply with regulations for a reason - to ensure the safety of all those using taxis in the Chester area."
Inspector Wilson detailed key requirements for drivers, including roadworthiness, valid ID badges, and the presence of a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and "no smoking" signs.
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