Posted on the 15th August 2025 in PHTM News

TAXI LICENCES RENEWED DESPITE WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCIL POLICY VIOLATION

Westmorland and Furness Council has renewed two taxi licences, making an exception to its policy on vehicle age after both firms missed their renewal deadlines.

The decision was made during a regulatory sub-committee meeting in Kendal Town Hall on August 14.

Under current council policy, non-wheelchair accessible vehicles must be less than five years old when first licensed.

Both Lady Cab Taxis and Ace Taxi, while having previously operated taxis, were required to apply as if they were new applicants because they missed their renewal deadlines.

Sonia Greenbank, a representative for Sedbergh-based Lady Cab Taxis, which missed its deadline by a few hours, expressed her frustration. "It’s hard for me, I’m letting my customers—that rely on me—down,” she said, highlighting the lack of transport options in the rural area she serves, stating "no buses, no nothing."

Dariusz Kuzma, co-owner of Windermere-based Ace Taxi, missed his deadline by five days. He apologised for the late application, citing a heavy workload and personal commitments. He also mentioned that his business was "struggling" due to competition from ride-share apps.

The council granted renewals for both licences.

It was noted during the meeting that a new taxi policy for Westmorland and Furness may be implemented in the future, replacing the current policy that was carried over from the council's predecessors, South Lakeland and Eden District Council.


Read another story