Cumberland’s new proposed taxi policy could spell vehicle age limit changes, penalty points system and dress code

Cumberland Council has unveiled a draft taxi and private hire policy, aiming to unify regulations across the newly formed council area. The initiative seeks to replace rules from three former district councils with a single, streamlined set of guidelines.

The proposed policy is currently in the consultation phase, inviting input from licence holders, various organisations, residents, and businesses throughout Cumberland. One of the notable changes includes a stipulation that vehicles over ten years old would no longer be eligible for use as taxis. Additionally, the policy introduces a strict dress code for drivers and a penalty points system to enforce compliance.

The draft policy is set to be reviewed by the Licensing Regulatory Committee later this year, along with feedback from the consultation process. If approved, the new rules will take effect from 1 April 2025.

Under the proposed rules, new vehicle licences issued from 1 April 2025 must be for vehicles under five years old. These vehicles can remain licensed until they reach ten years of age, provided they meet all requirements and are continuously licensed. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles have an extended licensing period, up to fifteen years. In cases where vehicles reach the maximum age limit, owners can apply under the Exceptional Condition Criteria for continued licensing.

Vehicles licensed before the new policy's implementation will continue to follow the conditions set by the legacy councils, with the exception of the frequency of vehicle testing. All vehicles, regardless of their licensing date, will adhere to a new testing schedule. Vehicles up to five years old will be tested every six months, while those over five years will require testing every four months.

Compliance with emission regulations is also a key aspect of the new policy, ensuring that all vehicles meet environmental standards. However, vehicles licensed before the cut-off date of 1 April 2025 will be permitted to remain in service up to the maximum age limit, provided they continuously meet all legacy conditions.