Shropshire proposes tighter taxi and private hire licensing rules under new policy

Shropshire Council has outlined plans to tighten taxi and private hire licensing rules as part of a proposed policy covering 2027 to 2031, with a formal consultation set to begin in April.

The draft policy, presented to the Strategic Licensing Committee on 11 March, includes stricter criteria for determining whether drivers, operators and vehicle owners are ‘fit and proper’, alongside measures to improve compliance and public safety.

The council said the update reflects changes in legislation and national guidance since the current policy came into force in 2023, while aligning with priorities around safeguarding, public health and economic stability.

A key focus is enhanced safeguarding, including increased background checks and improved data sharing between licensing authorities to identify risks linked to exploitation and criminal activity.

Council plans strengthened safeguarding checks and enforcement standards ahead of 2026 consultation

Officials warned that failing to maintain a robust policy could lead to legal challenges and weaker enforcement, limiting the council’s ability to regulate the sector effectively.

Environmental considerations also feature, with ongoing efforts to reduce vehicle emissions while responding to trade feedback on vehicle age limits.

The consultation will run for 12 weeks from 6 April to 28 June 2026, with responses shaping the final policy ahead of its planned introduction in 2027.