Posted on the 19th August 2025 in PHTM News

SOUTH KESTEVEN DISTRICT COUNCIL CRACKS DOWN ON TAXIS LICENSED OUT OF AREA

A council leader is appealing to the government to tighten operations by taxi and private hire drivers licensed outside of South Kesteven.

Locally-licensed drivers have raised fears of unfair competition from vehicles licensed outside the district operating within South Kesteven, restricting the district council’s ability to monitor those who do not comply with legislation, or even had a licence refused or revoked by SKDC but can trade in the district due to a loophole in the regulations.

Council leader Ashley Baxter is now lobbying the government about the issue, which allows drivers and vehicles to avoid SKDC standards.

Licensing staff have been on patrol during evenings, nights, and weekends to assist and advise on safety and regulations, including moving visiting drivers on from taxi ranks, ensuring private hire vehicles are not flagged down, and working with other enforcement authorities – including Lincolnshire County Council – to prevent illegal parking.

Cabinet member for licensing, Philip Knowles (Ind), said: “We are serious about closing this loophole and bringing a more level playing field for SKDC-licensed drivers and vehicles.

“We are operating intensive weekend and evening patrols in all four towns with enforcement action being taken on an escalating scale, starting with advice, then warning as we encourage compliance.

“For illegal parking, we liaise with the police, review CCTV footage and also share concerns with Lincolnshire County Council as the street parking authority.”

One of the concerns of SKDC-licensed drivers was of Peterborough, Rutland, and Wolverhampton-registered vehicles – including Uber – remaining in Stamford for pick-ups.

“Legally, there are no restrictions in place about where journeys start and finish, even for drivers licensed elsewhere, which means they can end up here and wait for their next job,” said Cllr Knowles.

“We are taking the opportunity to question these drivers, advise them and take positive action where appropriate.

“Where there are concerns, information is collected during our patrols so that we can report any concerns or issues directly to their licensing authority.”

SKDC is set to host a driver workshop this autumn, to encourage discussion of driver/operator concerns and for the council to provide them with further guidance and advice.

 

 

 


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