Chester Police Inspect Over 400 Taxis in Safety and Licensing Check

Chester Local Policing Unit has launched Operation Recordings, a continuing effort to ensure the safety and compliance of taxis in the area. Over the course of the operation, which has involved the Chester Beat Management Team and Special Constabulary, more than 400 taxis have been checked for licensing and roadworthiness.

Officers, with support from the Local Authority Licensing Team, focused on both locally licensed taxis and those licensed in other council areas. While it is legal for taxis from other regions to operate in Chester, the operation aimed to tackle challenges around ensuring these vehicles are properly checked by local authorities for safety and suitability.

Throughout the weekend of April 25-27, officers conducted safety checks on several taxis, inspecting essential features such as vehicle lights, driver identification, and the operation of CCTV cameras. This effort has resulted in four taxis being issued warning notices for issues such as faulty brake lights and incorrect number plates.

Inspector James Wilson stated:

"Operation Recordings was launched by the Chester Beat Management Team along with local partners including taxi licensing officers for Cheshire West and Chester, Wolverhampton, Wrexham, Sefton, and Flintshire, in order to combat unlicensed passenger vehicles."

The operation is designed to reassure the public that taxis in Chester are safe to use, while also ensuring compliance with the appropriate licensing regulations. Inspector Wilson added:

"It was really reassuring to see that so many of the taxis that operate in our area were compliant with the appropriate legislation."

Local authorities continue to support legitimate taxi operators, ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors.