DRIVERS REPORTED: Massive CROSS-BORDER operation in Warrington sees over 130 licensed taxis and private hire vehicles checked
Warrington Local Policing Unit, backed by multiple licensing agencies, launched Operation Confederation to ensure taxis and private hire vehicles (PHV) operating in the area meet legal and safety standards.
The operation, held over two weekends in November and December, saw officers inspecting over 130 vehicles at key taxi hubs and checkpoints across the town.
The initiative brought together Warrington’s Motorcycle Unit, Special Constabulary, Immigration Officers, and representatives from taxi licensing teams in Warrington, Halton, and Wolverhampton. Officers focused on both locally licensed taxis and those from other council areas operating in Warrington. Although it is legal for out-of-area taxis to work in Warrington, this practice complicates local authorities’ ability to perform routine safety checks.
Officers concentrated their efforts at Bank Quay and Central stations, where they engaged drivers and conducted inspections. Checks included verifying driver ID badges, ensuring vehicle lights were operational, and confirming compliance with CCTV regulations where required. During the first weekend, the Motorcycle Unit also ran roadside checkpoints along major routes, including Winwick Road, Stockton Heath, and near the M6 junction. These checkpoints were discontinued during the second weekend due to Storm Darragh.
Inspections revealed a range of issues, with the majority of breaches involving drivers failing to display ID badges as required by law. While these were considered minor offences, more significant problems were also identified. One Uber driver was found to be operating without the correct signage, a breach of licence conditions, and was issued a traffic report for using non-compliant number plates. Concerns about the driver’s licence were also flagged to the DVLA.
Another vehicle was seized after being stopped for driving with a light out. The driver, found to hold only a provisional licence, faced further scrutiny. Three other vehicles were issued defect notices for safety issues, including bald tyres, faulty lights, and insecure panels.
During the operation, a passenger was caught in possession of cannabis and issued with a community resolution. Officers also monitored compliance with CCTV requirements in licensed vehicles and carried out thorough checks on drivers’ IDs.
The findings highlight persistent challenges in regulating taxis operating across council boundaries, where oversight can become fragmented. Local authorities have indicated that further operations may follow to address these concerns and enhance public safety.
Inspector Christopher Webster, of Warrington LPU's Neighbourhood Team, said: "With the busyness of the festive period in mind, Warrington Neighbourhood Police, supported by Road Policing and local partners including immigration and taxi licencing officers for Halton, Warrington and Wolverhampton came together to launch Operation Confederations, an operation focusing on licensed passenger vehicles.
"The aim of Operation Confederation is to provide reassurance to those using taxis in Warrington, that they are safe to use and road worthy with enforcement action being taken where appropriate. It was really reassuring to see that so many of the taxis that operate in our town were compliant with the appropriate legislation, with the few found to be in breach being swiftly removed from the road.
"Our officers will continue to support the legitimate taxi drivers in Warrington throughout December, with this operation continuing well in to the festive period and new year to ensure those enjoying a night out in Warrington can return home safely."
