Bolton Council urge taxi drivers and passengers to mask up as COVID cases rise

People using taxis are being urged by Bolton Council to wear face coverings to help stop the spread of coronavirus as cases in the area grow.

Council chiefs are urging passengers to mask up following latest data revealing Bolton has the highest rate of coronavirus in the country (v per 100,000 w/e 31 August 2020).

Drivers are also strongly encouraged to wear face coverings when working and follow cleaning guidance.

Operators are being contacted by the council’s licensing team and asked to encourage customers booking a vehicle to wear a face covering.  

While it is not a legal requirement to wear a covering in taxis, unlike on public transport, it is seen by health experts as good practice.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Environment Regulatory Services, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “It is really important that we all play our part to help reduce the rate of coronavirus in the borough.

“Wearing a face covering in a shared vehicle is a simple thing to do to protect yourself and others, and it can help reduce the risk of transmission.”

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 Bolton Council are urging people to:

• Avoid crowded places

• Wear a face covering when required

• Keep 2 metres distance from others

• Wash hands with soap and water – often and for 20 seconds

• Avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.