Posted on the 16th October 2025 in PHTM News

JOINT SAFETY OPERATION TARGETS PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLES IN LEAMINGTON

Warwick District Council’s licensing team recently collaborated with the City of Wolverhampton's Compliance Department to conduct inspections on 27 private hire vehicles (PHVs) operating in Leamington.

The checks, which took place in the town centre from 9pm to 3am on Saturday, October 4, focused on vehicles licensed outside the district's boundaries.

While most vehicles were compliant, one driver was suspended for failing to have the taxi plate properly affixed and for having tinted windows.

Two other vehicles were identified with nearly non-compliant tyres, though their owners later provided evidence that the tyres were replaced.

The operation was specifically timed to coincide with the return of Warwick University students, which increases demand for taxis and PHVs.

Cllr Jim Sinnott, Portfolio Holder for Safer, Healthier and Active Communities, commented on the importance of the checks, stating: "Taxis are a vital service and are a huge support to the night-time economy." 

He added: "While it is not illegal for taxis licensed by other authorities to operate across our district, we must ensure as far as possible that these vehicles meet the high standards required by our council, and we have a regular and robust system of checks in place."

Costas Cosmas, a Licensing Officer from Wolverhampton City Council, also praised the initiative, saying: "Wolverhampton Council's Taxi Team regularly works with other councils to ensure that licensed drivers are adhering to their licensing conditions. This joint operation with Warwick District Council is an example of excellent partnership work."

The councils plan to conduct further joint inspections in the coming months.


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