Posted on the 13th November 2025 in PHTM News

DUDLEY TAXI DRIVERS THREATEN STRIKE ACTION OVER 'HORRENDOUS' COUNCIL TREATMENT

Taxi drivers in Dudley are considering strike action and launching a petition in protest against what they describe as "horrendous" treatment and unacceptable delays from Dudley Council's Licensing Department.

Abdual Qadus, the vice Chairman of the Dudley Private Hire and Taxi Association, slammed the council, stating the department is "understaffed, it’s in chaos," and offers "horrendously low quality" service.

Key grievances raised by the association include:

  • Verbal Abuse Allegations: Drivers have reported being "verbally abused" by members of the Licensing Department staff.

  • Processing Delays: Applications are taking "months to process when they should be taking seven days," which Mr. Qadus says is "having a massive impact on the livelihoods of drivers – this is their bread and butter."

  • Unkept Promises: The council is "making promises it isn't honouring" regarding an online portal promised "years ago" to streamline the licensing process.

  • Hostile Environment: Mr. Qadus stated: "We expect a professional service to be provided from the fees we pay, but it’s become very hostile. Professional standards are not being met."

Mr. Qadus warned, "We’ve pleaded for help, but now we’re demanding. We’re considering starting a petition and balloting for strike action."

In response, Councillor Phil Atkins, Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure, acknowledged that the process "is not always as quick as we'd like" but stated the council is working to address the issue, prioritising licence expiries to ensure drivers "who rely on their licence as an income should not be disadvantaged."

He also addressed the specific allegations:

  • Abuse Claims: Cllr Atkins said, "We are not aware of any accusations of verbal abuse by staff and would always investigate if we received any such reports."

  • New System: He confirmed a new computer system is being piloted, which will allow remote management of licences, adding, "We hope to launch this in the spring."

The association's vice chairman, however, claims that despite requesting meetings with the Head of Licensing, the Council Leader, and the CEO for "months," he has had nothing confirmed.


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