Ipswich Council Revokes 16 Taxi Licences to Boost Passenger Safety

Ipswich Council Revokes 16 Taxi Licences Amid Safety Concerns

Ipswich Borough Council has revoked 16 taxi and private hire licences since early 2020 as part of efforts to improve public safety and uphold professional standards in the transport sector. The action follows detailed reviews of driver conduct, including issues related to DVLA records, medical conditions, and serious allegations investigated by the police and other agencies. Similar enforcement measures have been observed elsewhere in the UK, including in Southampton, where 15 taxi drivers lost their licences over a two-year period.

In one notable case from March 2025, a driver was stripped of their licence after facing four serious allegations of dishonesty. While the council has not disclosed all details, it confirmed that several cases involved criminal investigations. In 2024 alone, Suffolk Police intervened in three incidents where drivers were either arrested or charged, leading to immediate revocations.

A council spokesperson explained the authority’s duty to protect passengers:

Ipswich Borough Council spokesperson stated:

"The council is responsible for ensuring, as far as possible, the safety of the public when travelling in an Ipswich Borough Council licensed taxi or private hire vehicle."
"To achieve this, we ensure that all licensed taxi and private hire drivers remain fit and proper to continue to hold a licence."

The move highlights the growing focus among UK councils on monitoring taxi services and holding drivers accountable to preserve public trust.