Walsall Council reviews Hackney Carriage and Private Hire licensing policy

Walsall Council has announced a public consultation regarding the review of its hackney carriage and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing policy.

The purpose of this review is to provide clarity and guidance to both applicants and existing licence holders, outlining the criteria the council considers when determining the suitability of individuals for hackney carriage or private hire driver, operator, or proprietor licences.

The consultation period started on Thursday 16 November 2023, and will remain open until Tuesday 28 December 2023, at midnight. This affords members of the public an opportunity to voice their opinions and contribute to the policy-making process.

In adhering to the Government's statutory guidelines, the council has made minor adjustments to the existing licensing conditions. These changes aim to keep the licensing standards current and consistent, ensuring that the travelling public in Walsall can have confidence in the licensed drivers serving their community.

Councillor Garry Perry, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities, said: “We want to make sure that the people who are licensed to drive taxis and private hire vehicles in Walsall are fit and proper to do so. This policy will help us to achieve that by providing clear guidance on the criteria that we will consider when making licensing decisions. “I would encourage all interested parties to take part in this consultation and share their views.“