Posted on the 1st May 2026 in PHTM News

HASTINGS PROPOSES TAXI AGE LIMIT EXTENSION TO OFFSET RISING COSTS

Hastings Borough Council is set to launch a public consultation on plans to let certain taxis stay on the road for longer.

Under the new proposals, the age limit for eight-seater vehicles and wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) would be extended from 10 to 15 years, while age limits for electric and hydrogen vehicles could be scrapped entirely.

Council officers backed the move, pointing out that the "financial barrier to entry" for new specialised vehicles has hit an "unprecedented high," with some models now costing over £63,000.

Experts argued that modern commercial vehicles are built to last, noting that "modern chassis and engines are designed to maintain peak performance well into their second decade if properly maintained."

Officials warned that forcing drivers to retire expensive cars too early acts as a "disproportionate depreciation tax" which can lead to higher fares or fewer accessible vaehicles for disabled passengers.

For green vehicles, they suggested that strict age limits would be "inappropriate, counterproductive and result in higher costs to the trade and ultimately passengers."

To ensure safety despite the increased age, any taxi over five years old would still have to pass two MOTs a year and an annual council inspection.

The council would also look at introducing a report from an approved independent garage, covering a vehicle’s: structural integrity; mechanical performance; corrosion and bodywork; safety systems; and (where relevant) wheelchair-access equipment.

The six-week consultation is expected to begin following the local elections.


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