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Stratford-on-Avon launches consultation on proposed taxi licensing policy that could change vehicle age limits
Stratford-on-Avon District Council has launched a 12-week consultation on a proposed new Taxi Licensing Policy, with residents, licensed drivers, private hire operators, businesses, partner organisations and other interested parties invited to submit feedback.
The consultation opened on 28 September 2026 and will close on 21 December 2026. Responses will be considered before the final policy is presented for adoption through the Council’s democratic process.
The proposed policy would replace the Council’s existing approach, which was introduced in 2009 and amended in 2013. The Council said the update aims to improve standards for licensed drivers and vehicles, strengthen safeguarding and accessibility expectations, and provide clearer information for the trade and the public.
Proposals include clearer expectations for drivers and passengers, updated information on data protection and the use of the National Register of Taxi and Private Hire Licence Revocation and Refusals database, and additional guidance on accessibility duties and assistance dogs.
The draft policy also proposes regular safeguarding and disability awareness training for drivers, revised enforcement provisions and a requirement for drivers to subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
Vehicle age requirements would also change under the proposals. Diesel, petrol and LPG vehicles would be licensed until they reach 12 years of age, while hybrid vehicles could be licensed until they reach 15 years of age.
No age limit would apply to fully electric or hydrogen vehicles with no exhaust emissions. The current minimum age requirement for vehicles would also be removed.
Comments on the proposed policy must be submitted by 21 December 2026. Further information, including the draft policy and details of how to respond, is available from Stratford-on-Avon District Council.
Councillor Lorraine Grocott, Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Portfolio Holder, said: "The proposed new Taxi Licensing Policy is about maintaining high standards, supporting public safety and making sure our requirements are clear, fair and up to date. We want to hear from residents, the taxi and private hire trade, businesses and partner organisations so that their views can help shape the final policy."
