Proposed changes to South Cambridgeshire District Council's Taxi Licensing Policy aim to make cab journeys even safer for both passengers and drivers.
Residents, visitors, taxi drivers, operators and businesses are being invited to share their views as part of a consultation which has just started. It follows approval by the Council's Licensing Committee at their meeting in September to gather public views on an updated policy before any final decisions are made.
The proposed changes are part of a wider review to ensure the Council's taxi licensing arrangements for private hire vehicles and hackney carriages remain in line with legislation, national guidance and recognised industry best practice – all whilst ensuring public safety is prioritised.
The draft new policy includes a range of proposed updates. This includes updated arrangements around driver suitability checks, licensing requirements, operator responsibilities and vehicle standards - alongside enhanced training and clearer procedures for drivers. The proposed changes have been informed by specialist taxi licensing guidance and reflect current advice from the Department for Transport and the Institute of Licensing.
One of the areas on which the Council is particularly keen to hear views is vehicle signage. Currently, licensed private hire vehicles in South Cambridgeshire are generally required to permanently display certain identification signage, including the distinctive yellow half-moon door signs.
The Council’s Licensing Committee discussed how they feel this permanent signage helps passengers identify licensed vehicles – and gives reassurance that any journey has a properly licensed driver at the wheel. The consultation therefore seeks people’s views on these arrangements.
The draft policy states that public safety remains at the heart of the Council's licensing arrangements. Proposed changes would also strengthen safeguarding requirements, update suitability and convictions guidance, introduce refresher safeguarding training and modernise a range of licence conditions.
South Cambridgeshire District Council's Lead Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Laurence Damary-Homan, said: "Taxis play an important role in helping people travel around our district safely and reliably. They offer a vital service in a largely rural area like South Cambridgeshire. We’re carrying out this consultation because it’s important our licensing policy reflects current legislation, national guidance and best practice. It also needs to make sure that high standards remain across the trade and prioritise the safety of passengers.
"We want to hear a wide range of views before any final decisions are made. Whether you are a resident, a regular taxi user, a driver, operator or local business, please take part in the consultation."
Feedback received will be considered before a final version of the policy is brought back to the Licensing Committee for consideration.
The consultation runs from 9am on Monday 26 October to 11:59pm on Sunday 29 November.
Residents can view the draft policy and submit comments online. If you would prefer to complete a paper survey – email engage@scambs.gov.uk or call 01954 713 000 to request one.
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