SUCCESSFUL CROSS BORDER CHECKS: Wolverhampton Council joins GMP for latest Manchester Airport compliance operation
The City of Wolverhampton Council’s Taxi Licensing Compliance team, Greater Manchester Police Traffic, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, and Immigration Enforcement have joined together to deliver the latest cross-border private hire vehicle compliance operation.
Conducted at Manchester Airport, the checks revealed that 11 of 12 Wolverhampton-licensed vehicles inspected met all compliance and roadworthiness standards.
This type of collaborative enforcement stems from the rise in drivers operating outside the jurisdiction where their licences were issued. In cities like Manchester, this has caused tension, as some councils and local operators argue that differing licensing standards can create inconsistencies.
Cross-border operations are seen as a means to ensure that licensed vehicles adhere to regulatory standards, regardless of where they operate.
The debate around cross-border taxi enforcement continues to grow, particularly as demand for private hire services expands. Operations like these serve as a reminder of the complexities of balancing public safety with fair and consistent regulation in the evolving taxi industry.
A City of Wolverhampton Council Public Protection spokesperson said: “Yesterday, Taxi Licensing Compliance worked with Greater Manchester Police Traffic and partners from the MIB and Immigration Enforcement at Manchester Airport.
“11 out of 12 City of Wolverhampton Council vehicles were found to be fully compliant and roadworthy.”