Wolverhampton private hire vehicles pass cross-border compliance checks in Hull
Compliance officers from the City of Wolverhampton Council, Hull Council Licensing, and Humberside Police collaborated on a public safety operation earlier this week.
The joint effort involved rigorous checks on licensed vehicles operating in the region. According to the City of Wolverhampton Council, all 11 of its vehicles inspected were deemed fully compliant and roadworthy.
This operation highlights a key issue in the UK’s licensing industry: cross-border working. Under current laws, private hire drivers can operate in areas outside the jurisdiction where they are licensed. For example, drivers licensed by the City of Wolverhampton Council, and other licensing authorities, frequently work in towns and cities across the UK.
Critics argue that cross-border licensing weakens local authority control, potentially compromising safety standards. Local councils cannot always enforce their rules on vehicles licensed by other authorities. This creates a patchwork system where enforcement standards vary.
Supporters, however, say that cross-border operations are legal and provide drivers with more opportunities to earn. Wolverhampton, in particular, has become a major hub for licensing due to its streamlined processes and efficient service.
A City of Wolverhampton Council Public Protection spokesperson said on Monday: “Yesterday, Compliance Officers joined with Hull Council Licensing and Humberside Police to enhance public safety by conducting thorough vehicle checks.
“All 11 City of Wolverhampton Council vehicles found fully compliant and roadworthy.“
