Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council to review taxi and private hire policy with major updates proposed
- Perry Richardson
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is preparing to review its revised taxi and private hire licensing policy at a Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for 15 July 2025. The draft policy reflects national guidance updates and includes a series of proposed changes that, if approved, will be subject to a six-week public consultation.
The review responds to updated guidance from the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Institute of Licensing (IOL), including revisions to best practice and driver suitability standards issued between 2022 and 2024. Although the Council last reviewed its licensing policy in 2022, the new proposals aim to reflect these latest developments.
One of the key changes under consideration is a six-month expiry for mandatory training prior to licence application. This move is intended to ensure applicants present recent and relevant training certificates. There is also a proposal to extend driving assessments beyond first-time applicants to include renewals, following regular public complaints about driving standards.
Training in disability awareness is another area flagged for potential change. While this has so far only been required on a case-by-case basis, the Council is asking whether it should be introduced as a mandatory requirement for all new and existing drivers.
Vehicle conditions are also being reviewed. The Council is proposing stricter rules on the use of tinted film on vehicle windows and better enforcement around the proper display of licence plates. Emissions standards are set to tighten in line with the borough’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, as around two-thirds of the licensed fleet is currently over ten years old. Although the Council removed age limits on vehicles several years ago, emissions-based criteria are now being put forward.
A separate proposal is being tabled to reconsider the long-standing cap on Hackney Carriage licences. The borough has not carried out an unmet demand survey since 2017, and the number of licensed Hackney Carriages has dropped to 58, well below the current limit of 70. The Committee will decide whether to consult on removing this cap altogether.
Changes are also proposed to the penalty points scheme. Drivers could see points remain valid for three years, and operators for five, aligning with DfT advice. The number of points allowed before triggering a review would also increase.
Further updates to conviction policies, licence conditions and vehicle testing manuals are included in the draft. These aim to bring procedures in line with the latest IOL guidance while reducing unnecessary burdens on the trade.
If approved, the revised policy will guide licensing decisions across applications, renewals, and appeals. Public consultation will follow before any final adoption.
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