Newcastle-under-Lyme Council to shift away from taxi age limits to help cabbies make zero emission move
Petrol and diesel taxis in Newcastle-under-Lyme could soon face a gradual phase-out, as the borough council puts forward a series of licensing changes. If approved, the measures will shift local taxi and private hire fleets toward zero-emission vehicles over the next decade.
The council’s proposed licensing policy outlines key timelines and aims to promote cleaner air by regulating emissions rather than vehicle age.
Currently, licensed taxis must be under seven years old at the time of registration and face more frequent testing after a decade. The new rules, however, would replace this age-based system with one focused solely on emissions standards and engine types.
Matt Burton, a council licensing officer, explained: “What we’re looking to do is move away from an age policy altogether, and as suggested in the best practice guidance, move towards an emissions and fuel type criteria.”
A consultation period of 12 weeks will allow taxi operators and other stakeholders to give feedback. The council will then review and finalise the policy.
The first phase would begin in April, as vehicles meeting only the Euro 4 emissions standard would no longer be eligible for licences. This change is expected to impact just three vehicles. The policy outlines that Euro 5 standard vehicles will be accepted for renewal one last time in 2025-26.
By April 2027, the council would stop issuing new licences for vehicles powered by petrol, diesel, or LPG. This paves the way for a complete ban on licensing vehicles with internal combustion engines by 2030. Hybrid taxis would face a similar fate, with all licences requiring zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
One other notable adjustment involves limiting livery on private hire vehicles. Under the proposals, these cars would be banned from displaying door branding, reducing the chance of confusion with Hackney carriages.
While the policy aims to cut emissions, it offers a key incentive for drivers. By removing age limits on vehicles, drivers investing in electric taxis could operate them for as long as they remain roadworthy. This provision could make the transition more cost-effective and attractive, as the higher initial expense of zero-emission vehicles would be offset over a longer operational lifespan.
