Posted on the 4th August 2026 in PHTM News

CABBIES FURIOUS AS CORNWALL COUNCIL SAFETY CHECKS THREATEN BUSIEST WEEK AT BOARDMASTERS FESTIVAL

Newquay taxi drivers have reacted with anger after joint spot checks by Cornwall Council licensing officers and Devon and Cornwall Police saw vehicles taken off the road just days before the Boardmasters Festival.

Local firms argue that the timing of the enforcement operation undermines their livelihoods during the most profitable period of the year, particularly as vehicles are already subjected to two annual MOTs and rigorous council inspections.

A spokesperson for Coastal Taxis Newquay questioned the proportionality of the checks, revealing that one of their drivers had his plate suspended over a minor issue that cannot be repaired until after the event due to garage backlogs.

They raised concerns over consistency, noting that "there appear to be large numbers of out-of-area private hire vehicles operating in and around Newquay" while local drivers are pulled off the road.

The spokesperson stressed that "common sense and proportionality should play a part" when decisions impact local businesses and thousands of festivalgoers needing transport.

However, local officials strongly defended the timing and necessity of the operation.

Newquay councillor and taxi driver Lyndon Harrison voiced no sympathy for affected drivers, stating that "these checks are carried out every year" and drivers must ensure their vehicles are fully compliant for public safety.

Deputy Mayor Sarah Thomson echoed these sentiments, welcoming the proactive enforcement and comparing it to festive breathalyser campaigns, adding that if a taxi requires professional garage attention, "maybe the fault is not that minor."


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