Out-of-area Wolverhampton private hire vehicles checked during Hull compliance operation
- Perry Richardson
- Sep 21
- 2 min read
Compliance Officers from City of Wolverhampton Council carried out licensing checks on private hire vehicles and drivers operating in Hull City Centre last night.
According to the council, all ten vehicles inspected were found to be fully compliant with licensing rules. However, one driver was advised on the requirement to wear their identification badge while working.
The operation is part of Wolverhampton’s ongoing programme to monitor its licensed drivers and vehicles working outside its immediate area. These checks, often carried out in partnership with local authorities, aim to ensure safety standards are met regardless of where the vehicle is operating.
The presence of Wolverhampton-licensed private hire vehicles in cities across the country, including Hull, has become more common due to existing legislation that allows cross border hiring. Under current rules, private hire drivers and vehicles can be licensed in one authority but take bookings anywhere in England, as long as the booking is made through an operator based in the same licensing area.
This legal provision has led to growing concerns among some local councils and trade bodies. Critics argue that it undermines local licensing controls and creates difficulties for enforcement teams, particularly in areas where high volumes of out-of-town vehicles are present.
City of Wolverhampton Council has been at the centre of the debate due to the high number of licences it issues and the national reach of many operators based in its jurisdiction. The council maintains that its licensing regime is both robust and fully legal, pointing to ongoing enforcement work as evidence of its commitment to driver and passenger safety.
The issue of cross border hire is currently under review by the Transport Select Committee, which is collecting evidence from local authorities, driver groups and operators. Discussions include the need for reform, with particular attention on whether local authorities should be granted more powers to control the activity of out-of-area vehicles operating within their boundaries.
A City of Wolverhampton Council Public Protection spokesperson said: “Tonight, Compliance Officers have been working in Hull City Centre checking City of Wolverhampton Council private hire vehicles and drivers. All 10 vehicles were fully compliant, but one driver was given advice re. wearing their badge when working.”
