Pendle’s Taxi Safety App: Delayed Implementation Sparks Tensions

Pendle Council is facing a major debate over the rollout of a mandatory taxi safety app, with significant opposition from local taxi drivers. Originally set for a February 2025 implementation, the scheme has seen only 3% of nearly 900 local taxi drivers sign up, leading the council to delay its introduction. This delay has intensified tensions among councillors and sparked frustration within the local taxi industry.

Resistance from Taxi Drivers

The introduction of the app was intended to improve safety standards by introducing digital checks for taxi vehicles. However, the rollout has been met with strong resistance from the local taxi trade. Critics point to the low uptake by drivers, rising concerns about potential costs, and fears that drivers might seek licenses from nearby authorities to avoid using the app. Independent Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, a vocal opponent of the scheme, has urged the council to scrap the app entirely and focus on rebuilding relationships with the taxi community.

Independent Councillor Mohammed Iqbal commented:

“Out of 800 taxi drivers, only 30 or so have signed up. If we had that level of uptake in other areas of work, we would be concerned,” said Councillor Iqbal. He warns of administrative chaos if the scheme proceeds, pointing out that the taxi committee could face an overwhelming number of drivers to manage at each meeting.

Ongoing Safety Concerns

Despite the resistance, some councillors argue that the app is necessary to address persistent safety issues within the taxi sector. Councillor Whipp has emphasized the ongoing safety concerns, referencing poor results from vehicle inspections and spot checks. Whipp believes the app is simple and inexpensive, and if it becomes too costly, the council can explore cheaper alternatives.

Councillor Whipp commented:

“We have talked for years with the trade and got nowhere. We have continued to see quite appalling results from spot-checks and tests done in garages. The app is simple to use and cheap. If it became more expensive in future, we could look at other providers and get a better offer.”

Political Tensions and Trust Issues

The dispute over the taxi app has highlighted deeper political tensions. Conservative group leader Nadeem Ahmed criticized the council for turning the taxi issue into a political football for the past two decades. He claims that this has eroded trust with taxi drivers and has stalled real progress on improving the local taxi service.

Conservative Group Leader Nadeem Ahmed commented:

“We have been talking about taxis for 20 years without making real progress. It has been used for political purposes time and time again. The administration's relationship with the trade has broken down.”