Westmorland and Furness opens taxi licensing consultation as new single policy proposed
- Perry Richardson
- 35 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Taxi drivers, private hire operators and passengers in Westmorland and Furness are being asked to share their views on a proposed new Taxi Licensing Policy.
The six-week consultation, which opened today, is aimed at creating a consistent licensing framework across the newly formed council area. Westmorland and Furness Council was created in 2023 through a merger of four local authorities, each of which previously had its own rules for taxis and private hire vehicles.
The new draft policy seeks to address these differences by introducing a single set of standards for all drivers and vehicles operating in Eden, Furness and South Lakeland. The Council says the aim is to raise service quality, ensure public safety, reduce environmental impact and improve fairness for drivers.
One of the major changes would be the removal of operating zones for Hackney Carriage drivers. Under the current system, drivers are restricted to operating only within the area they are licensed. The new approach would allow them to pick up fares anywhere across Westmorland and Furness.
A proposed dual licence system would also allow drivers to operate both Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles under a single licence and for one fee. The Council says this will cut costs for drivers and offer more flexibility.
Vehicle rules are also being reviewed. The policy would scrap age restrictions used in some areas and instead focus on emissions and safety. From April 2026, any newly licensed vehicle would need to meet Euro 6 emissions standards. Existing licensed vehicles would have up to three years to comply.
Older vehicles, particularly those over eight years old, would be subject to more frequent safety checks. These vehicles could be required to undergo up to three MOTs annually.
Enhanced DBS checks and regular medical assessments for drivers will remain in place. Drivers aged 65 or over will need to complete medical checks annually.
A new restricted private hire licence is also proposed for drivers working on school transport and social care contracts. This lower-cost licence is intended to help recruit more drivers into these essential services.
Members of the public, along with drivers and operators, are being invited to complete an online survey or attend drop-in events across the area, including at libraries in Barrow, Kendal, Penrith and Windermere, and The Coro in Ulverston.
Feedback gathered will be reviewed by the Council’s Cabinet in January 2025. If approved, the new Taxi Licensing Policy would be introduced from April 2026.
Cllr John Murray, Cabinet Member for Transport and Regulatory Services, said: “Taxis and private hire vehicles are a vital part of our local transport network, especially in rural areas where public transport options may be limited.
“This new, unified policy is an important step in bringing together the different systems we inherited through Local Government Reorganisation, ensuring that drivers and passengers across Eden, Furness, and South Lakeland all benefit from the same high standards.
“By creating one clear and consistent taxi licensing policy for Westmorland and Furness, we are raising expectations for safety, quality, and environmental performance. The changes we’re proposing will support professional, responsible drivers, improve the travelling experience for passengers, and help us move towards a more sustainable future for our communities.
“We want to hear from drivers, operators and passengers about what matters most to them. This is your chance to share your feedback and help shape how these changes are introduced, creating a policy that supports our taxi trade, protects passengers, and contributes to a greener, safer future for our communities.”
