Proposed Changes to Bolton’s Taxi Fleet Could Reduce Pollution

Bolton Council is considering a proposal that could bring significant changes to the borough’s taxi industry. The aim is to meet stricter emissions standards by the end of next year. If approved, all private hire and hackney carriage vehicles in Bolton would need to comply with Euro 6 diesel or Euro 4 petrol standards or transition to electric vehicles. However, the proposal is contingent on government approval for a Clean Taxi Fund for Greater Manchester.

The Clean Taxi Fund and Its Impact

The £30.5 million Clean Taxi Fund, to be managed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, would support taxi drivers in upgrading their vehicles to meet the new emissions standards. To be eligible for the funding, a borough must adopt the new licensing rules. Bolton drivers would have until the end of 2025 to register a compliant vehicle.

Current Status of Bolton’s Taxi Fleet

At present, over 300 licensed vehicles in Bolton do not meet the new emissions requirements, which represent nearly a quarter of the borough’s taxi fleet. The Licensing and Environmental Regulation Committee is set to review the proposal this month. If greenlit, the initiative could unlock crucial funding to modernise the fleet, improving air quality and helping drivers transition to greener alternatives.

Statements from Council Members

Cllr Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member responsible for licensing, expressed commitment to improving air quality: “Poor air quality affects everyone’s health and is linked to chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, and cancer.” She added that reducing emissions will significantly lower air pollution and improve the health of residents. If the policy is approved, drivers will be financially supported to upgrade their vehicles.