Barnsley Council Proposes Raising Taxi and Private Hire Fees

Barnsley Council Proposes First Fee Increase in Over a Decade for Taxi and Private Hire Licenses

Barnsley Council is considering raising taxi and private hire licensing fees for the first time in 11 years, which would affect drivers, vehicle owners, and operators. The proposed changes, still subject to approval, aim to address rising staffing costs and enhance public safety and compliance.

The council has proposed increases for several types of licenses, including those for drivers, vehicles, and operators. A one-year driver's license would rise from £137 to £150, while a three-year license would increase from £221 to £240. Vehicle licenses, currently £164 for one year, would also rise to £180. However, the most significant hike concerns operator licenses. A one-year operator license would double from £63 to £126, and a five-year operator license would increase from £127 to £254.

The proposed changes come as part of a broader effort to meet rising demand for licensing services. Since the last fee review in 2014, the council’s licensing team has expanded significantly to manage an increased workload. This includes more frequent inspections of vehicles, drivers, and operators, which are considered essential for maintaining safety standards and public trust.

The council’s approach emphasizes that the fee adjustments are designed to cover the costs of providing licensing services, not to generate additional revenue. As noted in an officer report, the charges reflect the time and resources required to process applications, conduct assessments, and carry out inspections. "The law requires that fees only cover the cost of delivering the licensing service and cannot be used to fund enforcement action or generate additional revenue."

A public consultation will run until May 16, 2025. If no objections are received, the proposed changes will be implemented. However, if objections are raised, they will be reviewed by the general licensing regulatory board within two months.

This update signals a critical moment for the local taxi industry, as the council looks to balance financial sustainability with the need to ensure higher safety and service standards for the public.