Uber secures Blackpool licence despite backlash from local cabbies

Blackpool Council has formally granted Uber a private hire operator's licence, allowing the ride-hailing giant to pick up passengers directly within the seaside town.

Previously, Uber drivers were operating in Blackpool under licences from other local authorities, predominantly Wolverhampton. With this new licence, Uber drivers can now officially register in Blackpool, providing them with direct local authorisation.

The decision follows Uber's fulfilment of all required criteria set by the council, marking a new chapter for the company’s operations in the area.

The move has not been welcomed by all. Many local taxi operators have raised concerns about the influx of Uber drivers, alleging irresponsible behaviour. In June, taxi drivers from long-established companies, including C-Cabs, Premier Cabs, and Blacktax, staged a protest in the town centre, demonstrating against out-of-town Uber drivers taking business from local firms.

Councillor Paula Burdess, who holds the portfolio for community safety and neighbourhoods, addressed the decision during a full council meeting. She made it clear that the licence was granted on legal grounds. According to Burdess, “there was nothing to call into question the fitness and propriety of the applicant.”

She added that once Uber met all the necessary criteria, the council was under a legal obligation to issue the licence. This new licence also allows Blackpool Council to directly monitor and inspect Uber drivers licensed locally.

The local authority’s ability to license and inspect more locally licensed Uber drivers represents a new layer of regulatory oversight, but whether this will calm the waters remains to be seen.