Posted on the 5th February 2026 in PHTM News

LOUGHBOROUGH TAXI DRIVERS FACE FINANCIAL STRAIN AS NEW VEHICLE RULES APPROVED

Charnwood Borough Council has pushed through strict new regulations for Loughborough’s black cabs, sparking fears that the cost of upgrading vehicles could force some cabbies off the road.

Approved on Tuesday, February 3, the policy aims to cut pollution by requiring all taxis to be newer models, despite a survey showing that over half of local drivers and residents opposed the plan.

Under the new timeline, drivers must have a vehicle newer than a 2009 plate by December 1 of this year to renew their licence, with standards tightening further to a 2014 plate by 2028.

The new rules give an extra two years to wheelchair-accessible vehicles – of which only 11 are currently registered.

While council officers argued the move aligns with national guidelines, Councillor Glenn Matthews abstained from the vote, warning that many drivers "can't afford a better car" and will feel targeted.

He told the committee: "They are going to read that letter and think: what have I done to deserve this? ... You are putting them out of business."

To balance the impact, the council is introducing a 20% discount on licence fees for fully electric taxis - no such cars are currently registered in the district. 

The council is relaxing the number of times a year that newer cars must be tested and scrapping the one-fail-barred rule, which meant older vehicles are immediately banned from re-testing if they fail.

However, critics argue these perks do little for those currently driving older vehicles.

Looking ahead, officers admitted they are unsure if future rules will be "stricter or softer on taxi drivers" once a new unitary authority takes over local government in 2028.


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