Posted on the 22nd October 2026 in PHTM News
WIGAN HACKNEY CARRIAGE DRIVERS CLAIM UNFAIR ENFORCEMENT AT TOWN CENTRE TAXI RANKS
Drivers call for fair treatment, more rank spaces and greater consistency in enforcement.
Hackney carriage drivers in Wigan have raised concerns over what they believe is unfair treatment by Wigan Council's taxi licensing team, warning that the situation is affecting their livelihoods and could lead to taxi shortages in the town centre.
According to Wigan Today, drivers say they are regularly being moved away from taxi ranks and issued warnings for over-ranking, despite what they claim is insufficient designated space for local taxis.
Their main concerns include:
• Warnings being issued to local Hackney carriage drivers for over-ranking.
• Claims that private hire vehicles operating under licences issued elsewhere are not facing the same level of enforcement.
• A shortage of designated taxi rank spaces in Wigan town centre.
• Concerns that reduced taxi availability could affect passengers, particularly late at night.
A spokesperson for the drivers said: “Hackney carriage drivers are not asking to be above the rules. We are asking for fairness, consistency and a clear explanation of the regulations governing taxi ranks.”
Wigan Council disputes suggestions of unfair enforcement, stating that officers regularly meet with the local trade and that a meeting took place this week.
The council says drivers have repeatedly been advised about over-ranking, unsafe practices and breaches of local byelaws.
It maintains that only a small number of drivers who continued to ignore advice have received warnings.
The council also highlighted the presence of taxi marshals helping to keep designated ranks clear of private vehicles.
The dispute raises an important question about how councils balance enforcement with the practical needs of the local Hackney carriage trade.
Drivers must comply with the rules, but councils must also ensure there is sufficient rank capacity to provide a reliable service to the travelling public.
Should Wigan Council provide more designated taxi rank spaces rather than relying on enforcement against drivers when existing ranks are full?
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