BLACK AND WHITE: All Newcastle black cabs to sport uniform look by November 2024
From 1 November 2024, all hackney carriages in Newcastle will feature a new standardised look as part of the city’s efforts to make genuine black cabs easier to identify.
Newcastle City Council introduced these changes in 2023, with a grace period to allow drivers time to comply.
The nearly 600 black cabs operating in the city will be required to have a black body with white bonnets, display red council crests on the front doors, and feature a distinct taxi sign. The sign will be white at the front and red at the back, making the vehicles stand out.
To help drivers meet the requirements, the council provided a £100 grant to those who held a taxi licence before June 2023, to cover the cost of applying a white vinyl wrap to the bonnet. Most drivers have taken advantage of this support.
The new rules also affect private hire vehicles, which must display a green council number plate and include the operator’s details on the rear passenger doors. These changes are designed to help passengers clearly distinguish between different types of transport services in the city.
Cllr Dan Greenhough, Cabinet member for economy, jobs and skills, said: “The safety of everyone in Newcastle is our top priority, and that includes the taxis that play such an important and unique role in keeping our city moving.
“That is why it is crucial that we have a distinctive fleet of hackney carriages that the public can easily recognise as Newcastle taxis.
“By introducing unique branding passengers can be reassured that the driver and vehicle have met our very high licensing standards and that they will be transported to their destination safely.
“It also supports efforts to stop unlicensed drivers illegally plying for trade and preying on vulnerable people – particularly lone women – after a night out.
“We thank our taxi drivers for complying with the new requirements and for their continued assistance in helping us to make Newcastle an attractive and vibrant place to live, work and visit, work.”
Northumbria Police area commander for Newcastle, Chief Superintendent Barrie Joisce, said: “Newcastle is renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere and our aim alongside our partners is to keep it that way.
“These changes will mean licensed carriages are easily recognisable to those looking to get home safely after enjoying a night out in the city and at other times of the day and week.
“The new policy also builds on our innovative Operation Redeemer patrols, in which we identify those offenders using vehicles to commit crime as part of the night-time economy and take the appropriate action.
“If you are in need of assistance while on an evening out, please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our officers. Remember, we’re here to help.”
