Woking Council opens consultation on extending deadline date for low emission accessible taxis
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 8
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 9
Woking Borough Council has launched a public consultation to assess whether the current deadline for making all wheelchair accessible taxis and private hire vehicles ultra-low emission should be extended beyond March 2026.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the availability and cost of wheelchair accessible vehicles that meet ultra-low emission standards, along with doubts around whether the borough’s charging infrastructure can support the switch at the required scale.
Council officers say the consultation aims to understand how residents, taxi drivers and local groups feel about the planned 2026 deadline, which has been in place as part of wider efforts to improve air quality and reduce emissions from licensed vehicles in the area.
However, some warn that pressing ahead with the deadline could reduce the number of accessible vehicles operating in Woking, limiting travel options for disabled residents and others who rely on such services.
The council has invited all interested parties to submit their views through an online survey, which will feed into future licensing and environmental policy decisions.
Beverley Kuchar, Woking Borough Council’s Strategic Director for Place, said: “Wheelchair accessible taxis are a vital part of our community, helping to make sure everyone can travel safely and independently.
“We are also committed to improving air quality, so it is vitally important that we get the balance right, so no one is left behind.
“This consultation is a chance for residents, drivers and community groups to tell us what matters to them and help shape a policy that works for everyone in our communities.“
