Posted on the 23rd December 2025 in PHTM News

HYNDBURN COUNCIL ENDS TESTING MONOPOLY FOLLOWING TAXI DRIVER OUTCRY

Local taxi and private hire drivers have secured a major victory as Hyndburn Council announced it will finally outsource vehicle safety inspections to private garages, ending a long-standing dispute over the authority’s testing monopoly.

For years, licensed drivers were required to use the council’s own Central Vehicle Maintenance Unit (CVMU) at a cost of £52.50.

However, the trade has "long raised concerns" regarding the facility, leading to repeated demands for an independent, privately operated alternative.

Under the new shake-up, the council is inviting local MOT stations to apply for "approved provider" status. These garages will be authorised to conduct both standard MOTs and the mandatory taxi compliance checks.

Hyndburn Council deputy leader, Cllr Melissa Fisher, stated that the transition would be a win-win for the borough.

“These changes will provide more flexibility for those in the trade and provide a boost to the economy by providing work to local garages,” Cllr Fisher said.

Despite the move to private providers, the council insists that safety requirements will not be diluted. All approved garages will be subject to regular inspections to ensure "standards are consistently maintained."

Addressing potential safety concerns, Cllr Fisher added: “The council will ensure that any garage certified to provide MOT testing and compliance checks will meet our high standards and make sure that all taxis on Hyndburn’s roads are safe to drive.”

Local MOT stations interested in becoming approved providers must meet specific criteria and submit their applications by the January 16 deadline. Once approved, these garages will be able to issue Certificates of Compliance directly to drivers.


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