Safety concerns force two taxis off the road in West Yorkshire licensing checks
- Perry Richardson
- Apr 4
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 5
Two taxis were suspended from service due to serious safety concerns after a joint licensing enforcement operation took place across Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley.
The initiative, led by West Yorkshire Police’s Licensing Team and Wakefield Council Enforcement Officers, took place on Thursday 27 March 2025. Officers stopped 14 hackney carriage and private hire vehicles throughout the day to inspect their roadworthiness and compliance with local licensing conditions.
Two vehicles were taken off the road after being found to pose safety risks and for failing to meet licensing requirements. A further two were issued with Vehicle Defect Rectification Schemes due to mechanical or safety issues which now require action within a set timeframe.
Four warnings were issued to drivers for breaching licensing rules. These included minor offences such as failing to display ID badges, missing fire extinguishers and faulty vehicle lighting. The remaining vehicles passed the inspection.
A Castleford town centre taxi operator was also visited following multiple public complaints relating to passenger safety.
Police and council officers confirmed that they will continue working together to ensure taxi and private hire standards are maintained across the region.
