Compliance failures, geo-fencing Uber and testing costs dominate Southampton taxi trade forum
Southampton’s latest Taxi and Private Hire Trade Forum saw licensing officials and trade representatives meet to address compliance issues, testing costs, and policy concerns.
The session, chaired by Councillor Matthew Bunday on 13 March, provided updates and responded to questions from associations across the city.
A key concern was vehicle condition. A compliance operation led to several written warnings and two driver suspensions over maintenance standards. Licensing officers also carried out test purchasing using volunteers. Most drivers passed, but one hackney carriage operator was found to have overcharged due to meter misuse, and one private hire driver accepted a fare without a booking, triggering enforcement action.
Enforcement was also discussed around card payments. While all hackney carriages tested accepted card payments, none displayed identifying badge or plate numbers on customer statements. Officers issued advice on this matter.
Vehicle testing costs were questioned, particularly a price hike by contractor Adams Morey. Licensing explained the rise aligns with inflation and noted that, after feedback, the position of Licensing Manager would not be cut as initially suggested in a staff review.
CCTV SD card costs were challenged. Drivers raised concerns over paying £60 or more for replacements. Licensing clarified that the cards supplied are industrial grade and built for longevity, with one provider charging £38 plus VAT and carriage.
The issue of docks access permits prompted discussion. Associated British Ports had considered widening permit access to private hire vehicles and Eastleigh hackneys. Following trade feedback, ABP opted to retain the current restriction to Southampton-licensed hackney carriages.
Geo-fencing by Uber within the docks area also came up. Licensing confirmed it restricts app bookings within the defined area. They said there’s no evidence of local drivers waiting on ranks for Uber jobs, but the forum noted the situation would be monitored.
On wider policy, the 2026–2031 Taxi Policy draft will be shared with the trade for consultation later this year. No major changes are expected. Trade elections will be held in-house by Southampton City Council this year.
The meeting also touched on cross-border hiring, signage concerns, and access to SmartCities Cards for non-resident drivers. However, the council said financial pressures and fairness for other professions made extending the bridge toll discount difficult at present.
Infrastructure updates were provided, including plans to modify Terminus Terrace for shared taxi and loading use, and to raise the carriageway at the Central Station taxi rank to aid accessibility.
