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Taxi and PHV drivers targeted in late-night licensing checks at Epping, Loughton and Buckhurst Hill stations
Taxi and private hire drivers operating around Epping, Loughton and Buckhurst Hill stations were subjected to late-night compliance checks as part of a joint enforcement operation organised by Epping Forest District Council.
The operation, carried out by the council’s Environmental Enforcement and Licensing Officers, focused on ensuring licensed taxi and private hire drivers and vehicles were operating legally and complying with the conditions attached to their licences.
Officers visited the three station locations throughout the evening, examining driver credentials, vehicle documentation and licensing arrangements. The checks were also designed to identify and deter unlawful activity, including illegal taxi touting.
The council said the enforcement activity formed part of its continuing efforts to protect passengers, particularly those using taxis late at night when transport options may be more limited.
A central part of the operation involved checking that vehicles were appropriately licensed, insured and roadworthy. Officers also sought to verify that drivers met the standards required by the licensing authority.
Illegal taxi touting was another priority. The council is seeking to prevent individuals from unlawfully approaching passengers and offering journeys without the necessary licensing arrangements.
Railway and Underground stations can attract significant taxi demand, particularly during evening periods when passengers are completing the final stages of their journeys.
Enforcement at these locations can help identify unlawful operators while providing reassurance to passengers using legitimate licensed services.
For compliant taxi drivers, the operation also serves to protect their ability to trade without facing unlawful competition from individuals operating outside the licensing framework.
The council said its compliance work is intended to safeguard vulnerable passengers, maintain public confidence in the local taxi and private hire industry and identify licensing breaches where enforcement action may be necessary.
Cllr Darshan Sunger, Cabinet Member for Licensing at Epping Forest District Council, said: “Keeping residents and visitors to our district safe alongside stamping out Taxi Touting is key to our operations and I am grateful to our Licensing and Environmental Enforcement officers for working outside their daily hours to carry out these important checks.”
