
Teignbridge District Council has launched a major public consultation on sweeping updates to its taxi and private hire licensing policy, aiming to boost public safety, elevate trade standards, and help the environment.
Running from Friday, June 26 until midday on Friday, August 7, the council is actively seeking feedback from drivers, operators, passengers, and residents on the draft policy, which marks the first full review of the local licensing framework in over 15 years.
The proposed changes introduce significantly tighter regulations across the board. Drivers will face stricter suitability rules, including new knowledge assessments and language proficiency checks, alongside mandatory training in safeguarding, disability awareness, and spotting county lines drug exploitation.
Vehicle standards will also get tougher, with requirements for daily safety checks by drivers, formal inspections every six months, stricter emission controls, and new guidelines regarding in-vehicle CCTV.
Additionally, the policy expects drivers to predominantly operate within Teignbridge and introduces rules for horse-drawn carriage services.
Councillor Suzanne Sanders, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, explained that the review aims to keep services safe, reliable, and accessible while maintaining a fair system for workers.
"We want to know whether the proposals strike the right balance between safety, service and reasonable requirements for the trade," Cllr Sanders said.
Residents and stakeholders can review the draft policy and submit their views on the council's website: www.teignbridge.gov.uk/licensing/taxis-and-private-hire/hackney-carriage-and-private-hire-policy/ before the final policy goes to the full council later this year.

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Established for over 30 years, Coopers Taxis has built an outstanding reputation for providing reliable transport around Chorley, offering a diverse fleet to cater for every journey.
