Posted on the 22nd August 2025 in PHTM News

ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL CONSIDERS UNIFORMS FOR TAXI DRIVERS

Rochdale council is exploring the possibility of introducing a dress code for taxi drivers, an initiative proposed by highways boss Councillor Shah Wazir.

The idea, which was discussed during a recent council cabinet meeting, is aimed at improving the town's image by ensuring that cabbies, who are often the first point of contact for visitors, present a smarter appearance.

"When people visiting the borough arrive at the train station for example, usually taxi drivers are their first point of contact. First impressions count," Cllr Wazir stated.

He questioned whether it was possible "to have a dress code for taxi drivers so they can be easily recognised?"

A council officer noted that while the idea had been mentioned previously, no official progress had been made, but assured the committee that the team would look into it.

The meeting also saw the approval of a new taxi emissions policy, part of the wider Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan.

The new policy mandates that by August 31, 2030, all licensed taxis and private hire vehicles must meet a minimum standard of Euro 6 for diesel cars or Euro 4 for petrol cars.

Currently, 345 out of 1,852 vehicles in Rochdale do not comply with these standards.

Council bosses reported that the taxi trade has welcomed the plan, as it could open up access to £8 million in government funding across Greater Manchester to help drivers upgrade their vehicles.

 


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