ENFORCEMENT: 114 licensed taxi and private hire vehicles checked at East Midlands Airport
Officers from the Rushcliffe South Beat team, in collaboration with Leicestershire Police, recently participated in Airport Safety week at East Midlands Airport. The aim of the operation was to ensure that taxis and private hire vehicles operating at the airport were compliant with licensing regulations and maintained proper safety standards.
Joining forces were licensing officers from North West Leicestershire, Charnwood, Gedling, and Rushcliffe borough councils, as well as representatives from the DVSA and vehicle examiners, the police conducted thorough inspections of vehicles.
During the operation, a total of 114 vehicles were screened at the inspection site located at EMA.
Several common issues emerged, such as uncleanliness, malfunctioning lights, the lack of spare wheels or inflation kits, and tyres nearing the legal limit. VOSA enforcement officers provided advice to address these concerns and promote better vehicle maintenance practices.
In addition to ensuring vehicle compliance, the checks also focused on driver documentation. It was discovered that seven drivers failed to have their Hackney Carriage/Private Hire driver's licences with them. These on-the-spot checks were vital in verifying the correct licensing and confirming their identities.
The DVSA took decisive action by issuing a prohibition notice for a minibus licensed as a Public Service Vehicle. The vehicle was found to be unsafe and unfit for passenger transportation. Furthermore, a delayed prohibition notice was also given to a licensed taxi due to defective brake pads.
The joint effort by law enforcement agencies, councils, and regulatory bodies at East Midlands Airport exemplifies the commitment to passenger safety and the strict standards set for the taxi and private hire industry.
