Barnsley Council reveals results of taxi and private hire vehicle compliance operation involving out-of-area cabs
A recent Barnsley Council enforcement update reveals the ongoing work of licensing officers in ensuring compliance across the taxi and private hire sector. The report, presented to the General Licensing Regulatory Board, highlights the proactive measures undertaken to address vehicle and driver standards.
On 6 September 2024, a static nighttime operation in Barnsley’s town centre inspected vehicles and drivers working within the night-time economy. Officers checked 23 locally licensed vehicles and drivers, alongside 12 licensed by other authorities.
The inspection found 17 of Barnsley’s vehicles and drivers to be fully compliant. However, six instances of non-compliance were identified. These included issues such as inoperative lights, missing signage, and drivers failing to maintain required records.
Non-compliance details for the 12 out-of-area vehicles and drivers were shared with their respective licensing authorities.
The report said: “Vehicle failures are always unacceptable, and our enforcement operations must convey the message that operators, vehicle proprietors and drivers must accept responsibility for any failures and make a change. All Licensing Authorities have clear standards that must be adhered to as failure to do so may put the safety of the public at risk when using a hackney carriage or private hire vehicles.
“The principal consideration for all is, as always, one of public safety.”
