Posted on the 22nd December 2025 in PHTM News
BLACKBURN TAXI CRACKDOWN: TWO DRIVERS SUSPENDED IN JOINT POLICE OPERATION
Two taxi drivers were forced off the road Thursday night after a joint enforcement sweep by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Lancashire Constabulary identified serious vehicle infractions.
The operation, conducted on December 18, saw officers utilise "new tactics learned from previous operations" to target non-compliant drivers.
The crackdown resulted in two immediate roadside suspensions, stripping the drivers of their ability to operate until they can prove to the council that all issues have been rectified.
Beyond the immediate suspensions, the drivers were issued formal traffic offence reports.
Three additional drivers were issued points on their permits; under this system, accumulating too many points triggers a panel review that can result in a "taxi badge being revoked or suspended for a period of time."
A Lancashire Constabulary spokesperson noted the success of the refined strategy: “We have taken learning from past operations and have developed a new approach in enforcement and education, which has brought favourable results, and we will be running regular joint operations in the future.”
The sweep wasn't limited to mechanical checks. Officers specifically monitored parking at Royal Blackburn Hospital, targeting drivers blocking "vital access... required for emergency vehicles."
A force spokesperson added: “Over the full operation, along with enforcement, advice and guidance were given on a wide range of topics, including checking safety equipment in vehicles and the legal DBS safeguarding requirements for drivers.”
The council and police have signalled that these joint operations will become a regular fixture in Blackburn to ensure passenger safety and maintain clear access for emergency services.
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