RETESTS NEEDED: Taxi spot checks carried out in North West Leicestershire as part of safety initiative
- Perry Richardson
- 3 hours ago
- 1 min read
North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has carried out spot checks on taxis in Ashby de la Zouch and Coalville, targeting safety compliance as part of a national initiative.
The checks, undertaken on Saturday 9 August, formed part of the Home Office’s ‘Keeping Town Centres Safe’ programme. NWLDC’s licensing team worked alongside Leicestershire Police and council depot mechanics to inspect taxis for safety, insurance and licensing compliance.
Thirteen vehicles were checked during the operation. Ten of those passed inspection, while two were found to have faults requiring a retest. One licensed driver failed to attend and will now be subject to further investigation by the local authority.
NWLDC depot mechanics, based at the Linden Way facility, carried out the mechanical checks. At the same time, police officers verified driver credentials, including insurance and driving licence status, while also providing public reassurance in both town centres during the evening operation.
The inspection programme aims to reduce risks to passengers and support public confidence in local transport services, particularly during evening and night-time hours when demand typically increases.
Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change at NWLDC, said: “This joined-up initiative not only helps to maintain high standards in the taxi trade but also sends a clear message: safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“The feedback from the evening has been overwhelmingly positive, with drivers and passengers telling us they appreciated the support and professionalism of the teams involved.
“I’m pleased that this proactive initiative has helped ensure that taxis operating in our district are safe, compliant and ready to serve the public responsibly.”
