SUSPENDED: Wolverhampton Council’s cross-border private hire checks head to Cheshire where one vehicle falls foul
Updated: Dec 28, 2024
City of Wolverhampton Council continued its ongoing efforts to enforce licensing compliance for private hire vehicles operating outside their licensed area with a visit to Cheshire.
On Saturday 21 December, compliance officers from Wolverhampton joined forces with Cheshire Police to conduct checks in Chester city centre. Six vehicles licensed by Wolverhampton Council were inspected, resulting in one suspension due to incorrect display of a private hire vehicle (PHV) plate.
The operation is part of a wider strategy to ensure private hire vehicles and drivers adhere to the conditions of their Wolverhampton-issued licences, even when working elsewhere in England. Wolverhampton, a popular licensing authority due to its streamlined application process, has seen a growing number of drivers operating in cities outside the West Midlands.
The council maintains that regular cross-border checks are vital to uphold public safety and licensing integrity. These checks target vehicles to ensure compliance with licensing rules, such as displaying proper plates, valid insurance, and driver credentials.
Collaboration with local police and licensing authorities forms a key part of Wolverhampton’s approach. This strategy ensures that licensing standards are maintained regardless of where vehicles operate.
Wolverhampton Council’s licensing policies have been under scrutiny in recent years due to the high volume of private hire licences issued. The council defends its stance, highlighting its commitment to robust enforcement to tackle non-compliance wherever it occurs.
Further operations are expected as the council continues its nationwide compliance efforts.
A City of Wolverhampton Council Public Protection spokesperson said on Sunday 22 December: “Last night, compliance worked with Cheshire Police in Chester City Centre.
“Six Wolverhampton Council vehicles checked, one had its licence suspended for not displaying their PHV plate correctly.”
