Cumberland Council faces taxi industry scrutiny over new penalty points system
Cumberland Council is moving forward with its draft Taxi and Private Hire Policy for 2025, which includes a contentious new penalty points scheme aimed at regulating driver behaviour and ensuring compliance.
This system, which has drawn both criticism and support, is set to impose points on taxi licences for certain infractions, functioning as a supplementary enforcement tool set apart from DVLA penalty points on drivers’ licences.
Following an extensive consultation period, the council received mixed feedback from the taxi industry, some of whom view the penalty points scheme as excessive and discriminatory. Concerns were raised over the fairness of the points allocated for specific offences, with some in the industry suggesting that the penalties are overly harsh. There were also questions around whether the system is necessary, given existing regulatory measures.
However, proponents within the industry argue that a structured penalty system could bring much-needed consistency and accountability. Supporters believe it will enhance standards and reinforce the council’s commitment to public safety. They argue that a formalised structure provides clarity for operators and drivers, setting clear boundaries that should improve overall service quality.
In response to these mixed views, Cumberland Council has made adjustments to the scheme. Points will now be issued jointly by a licensing officer and a senior officer, with cases of repeat or serious infractions potentially reviewed by the regulatory committee to determine whether a licence should be revoked. Final approval of the penalty points scheme, and other aspects of the policy, is expected in January 2025, with the council aiming for full implementation by April.
The new policy’s rollout reflects Cumberland Council’s wider ambition to harmonise taxi regulations across the area, removing inconsistencies stemming from legacy policies. While the penalty points system has sparked controversy, it aims to mark a step towards greater regulatory coherence across Cumberland’s taxi and private hire services.
