Blackburn Taxi Drivers Rally Against MOT & Licensing Policies

A large gathering of taxi drivers in Blackburn has highlighted growing concerns over licensing regulations and MOT testing policies. The meeting, attended by approximately 250 cabbies, took place at The Ivy Centre and was organized by the Taxi Union of Blackburn, Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain, and local councillors. Discussions centered around what drivers perceive as unfair treatment by the Blackburn with Darwen Council, particularly regarding MOT fees, testing restrictions, and licensing delays. Similar concerns have been raised in other parts of the UK, including protests over fee hikes and competition from Uber in Windsor, where drivers have voiced frustrations over increasing financial pressures.

Among the primary concerns raised was the cost of MOT tests. Drivers argued that fees imposed by the council are significantly higher than those in other regions, with some claiming they pay double the amount charged elsewhere. Additionally, there were calls for the fees to be fixed for five years to ensure stability in costs. Another major point of contention was the council’s policy requiring all tests to be conducted at its own MOT station, with drivers urging the council to permit the use of independent or private testing centers.

Recent changes to MOT policies have also sparked discontent. Previously, drivers whose vehicles failed an MOT test could continue operating under a trust-based agreement, provided they committed to addressing the issues promptly. However, the council has since introduced a rule that immediately suspends taxis with failed MOTs until repairs are completed. This measure, according to the council, was necessitated by instances of drivers failing to fix their vehicles despite initial commitments. Drivers argue that this policy results in unnecessary income loss and have demanded a review of the system.

Another critical issue discussed at the meeting was the handling of license points. Some drivers questioned whether the council should have the authority to determine whether a driver is fit to operate with six points on their license. The council defended its stance by highlighting that such points often stem from serious offenses such as driving without insurance or using a mobile phone while driving, both of which pose risks to passenger safety.

Delays in taxi badge renewals were also a major source of frustration. Some drivers reported waiting months for verification processes, particularly when they held badges from other councils. This delay, they claimed, was affecting their ability to work and earn a living. The council, however, stated that it follows a strict procedure to ensure that applicants do not have compliance issues with other licensing authorities. It also pointed out that the time taken for verification is often beyond its control.

The council defended its policies, emphasizing that passenger safety remains its primary concern. Cllr Jim Smith, executive member for environment and communities, addressed the issue of MOT failures, stating that a significant percentage of taxis in Blackburn with Darwen fail their tests.

Jim Smith said:

"Between November 2024 and January 2025, 68 percent of taxi vehicles presented for an MOT test failed, which is much higher than the national average."

He further stated that the council had a responsibility to take action against unsafe vehicles and that measures had been put in place to prevent unfit taxis from operating.

Jim Smith stated:

"Of course, we take action to prevent unsafe vehicles operating as taxis, and have responded by putting in place measures to protect passenger safety by stopping vehicles working to carry members of the public until dangerous and major defects are put right."

Regarding the issue of licensing and badge renewals, he explained the necessity of thorough background checks.

Jim Smith stated:

"When handling taxi badge applications, council officers undertake a range of inquiries to establish the fitness of applicants to be given the responsibility of transporting members of the public. This includes a mandatory search of the national database of license refusals, revocations, and suspensions."

The council maintained that its licensing fees are reviewed regularly and are in place to reflect the operational costs of the service. Smith reaffirmed the council’s commitment to prioritizing safety in all aspects of taxi regulation.

Jim Smith stated:

"For my point of view, it’s not just safety first – but safety second and safety third. This is about protecting the safety of people who travel by taxi."

Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain attended the meeting and acknowledged the concerns raised by drivers. He pledged to support the introduction of an independent MOT testing station, emphasizing that the matter had been overdue for review.

Adnan Hussain stated:

"I do agree there has to be a second independent MOT station review. It has been long overdue. This was promised quite some time ago. This is something I will raise with the council."

He also acknowledged the need for a balance between public safety and drivers’ ability to earn a fair living.

Adnan Hussain said:

"We have to balance the council duty to protect the public’s interest and to protect vulnerable people. But at the same time, the right of you guys to earn a fair living."

The event also provided an opportunity for cabbies to share their personal frustrations regarding rising costs, prolonged waiting times, and licensing challenges. Drivers expressed concerns that policy changes and fee increases were making it increasingly difficult to sustain their livelihoods.

The Taxi Union of Blackburn, which played a key role in organizing the gathering, reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for fairer policies and continued engagement with the local council. While no immediate resolutions were announced, the meeting served as a platform to amplify the voices of taxi drivers and push for regulatory changes that better accommodate their needs.