North Kesteven opens taxi and private hire licensing consultation in light of new statutory guidance

North Kesteven District Council (NKDC) have opened up a new consultation on the topic of taxi and private hire vehicle licensing in the District.

The response comes as the Department for Transport (DfT) introduced new statutory guidance on a national scale. The licensing authority has now decided to undertake a formal review of its policy in light of the newly published guidance. 

NKDC have allowed anyone to leave comment on the policy, which can be accessed from a consultation webpage.

The closing date for comments is 16 November 2020 and the council particularly wants to hear from local residents.

The council have outlined the vital role taxis and private hire drivers play in an integrated transport system. They provide services in situations where other forms of transport are not available. The principal purpose of taxi and private hire licensing is to protect the public.

North Kesteven District Councillor and Executive Board Member with responsibility for licensing, Councillor Mervyn Head said: “The Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy affects both businesses and residents and by asking for comments from the public, the District Council can make sure the amended document follows best practice to ensure the safety of all who use a taxi or private hire vehicle within North Kesteven.”