FIVE of the biggest challenges facing taxi drivers in the North West
- Perry Richardson
- 4 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The taxi trade across the North West is adjusting to policy change, shifting demand and rising costs. Day-to-day decisions on licensing, vehicles and work patterns now carry greater weight for livelihoods. Here we look at the five biggest challenges facing cabbies in the North West.
Cross-border licensing reshaping local work
Out-of-area licensing remains the single largest pressure. Drivers licensed in one authority often work mainly in another, creating uneven standards and limited local control over those vehicles. City-region leaders in Greater Manchester have set out plans to tighten rules and close gaps, with a focus on where bookings start and operator accountability. Joint checks continue at stations and city gateways, with suspensions issued when standards are not met.
Airport access, processes and penalties
Manchester Airport is a vital source of work and a frequent point of friction. Set-down rules, pick-up processes and private land enforcement are complex. Drivers report that signage, routing and payment systems can be confusing, while penalty charges are significant if any step is missed. Trade representatives want clearer information, better integration with operator systems and faster dispute resolution so that compliant drivers are not caught out.
Fleet age limits, emissions policy and funding
Local authorities are aligning emissions timelines while trying to keep fleets earning. Manchester has extended taxi age limits, and other councils have moved deadlines to match wider regional plans. The policy goal is cleaner vehicles, but the timing, grant support and vehicle choice all affect whether drivers can upgrade without taking on unsustainable finance. Consistency across the city-region would reduce uncertainty and help drivers plan purchases with confidence.
Challenging economy and fluctuating demand
Household budgets remain tight across the region, which affects discretionary trips and late-night spending. Demand varies by week and by district, with pronounced swings around events, rail disruption and weather. Advance bookings on major routes are firmer, but rank trade can be unpredictable, making shift planning and cashflow harder. Operators and drivers are adapting with flexible hours, more focus on regular accounts and closer tracking of local events to smooth the peaks and troughs.
Costs, hours and oversupply
Earnings are being squeezed by inputs that drivers do not fully control. Insurance for licensed work remains high, tyres and maintenance have risen, and fuel costs have edged up again. Many drivers are working longer weeks to maintain income. At the same time, the number of private hire drivers operating across the wider region has expanded, increasing competition for each fare. Trade groups continue to call for a more balanced approach to market entry and targeted support with running costs.
