Inverness taxi checks prompts warnings over dress code, vehicle condition and operating with out a licence
- Perry Richardson
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
A joint operation in Inverness involving Highland Council Trading Standards and Police Scotland has found several taxis and private hire vehicles operating with licence and safety concerns.
On Friday 31 October, officers carried out roadside checks in the city centre and surrounding areas. The exercise aimed to confirm that licensed vehicles were meeting road safety standards and that drivers were complying with the conditions of their licence.
A total of 27 vehicles were stopped and inspected during the operation. Warnings were issued to drivers for a range of issues, including failure to carry required documentation, failure to meet expected dress code standards, and poor vehicle condition.
Concerns were raised about tyre conditions, with police highlighting the increased risk during the winter season. Drivers were reminded of the importance of maintaining tyre standards as colder conditions set in.
One vehicle was found to be operating without a valid taxi licence, prompting further investigation by both police and Trading Standards teams.
The operation formed part of an ongoing effort to uphold safety standards within the local taxi and private hire fleet and ensure confidence among passengers.
Authorities are expected to continue similar checks across the region in the months ahead.
Police Constable Siobhan Cooper from the City Centre Policing Team, Inverness, said “This was another good opportunity to engage with drivers and carry out the relevant checks of their vehicles. With the winter season upon us, it was a good opportunity to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and in a safe condition. It was good to see that most drivers again were operating within the terms of their licences”
Mark McGinty, Trading Standards Team Leader, said “The operation of taxi and private hire vehicles is a licensable activity, and holders of licences are subject to adhering to the conditions of the licence. The purpose of the licence is to ensure that the service provided is safe and fair.
“Whilst it is again encouraging that the level of compliance was good, it is noted that some find themselves the subject of warnings.
Should Operators or Drivers be unsure of what is required of them they can obtain a copy of their licence conditions by contacting the Highland Council Licensing Team. Trading Standards welcomes the opportunity to work alongside Police Scotland in similar operations in the future.”
