Derby Taxi Industry Faces Upheaval Amid New Licensing Rules

Fears grow among Derby taxi drivers as new licensing rules set to take effect

Taxi drivers in Derby are expressing deep concern over a new policy by the Derby City Council that could make it difficult for them to continue their profession. The new regulation, set to be implemented from April 1, will require any private hire vehicle being licensed for the first time to be no older than five years. The council claims the move is aimed at ensuring passenger safety and reducing emissions, but drivers argue that the financial burden it places on them is unsustainable.

The General, Municipal, and Boilermakers (GMB) Union, which represents hundreds of taxi drivers in Derby, has strongly opposed the changes. The union argues that this rule significantly reduces the vehicle age limit from the previous 15 years, making it challenging for many drivers to comply. Vehicles currently licensed can continue operating until they reach 15 years of age, but any driver needing to replace a car due to damage or wear and tear will be required to purchase a much newer vehicle.

Concerns over stricter licensing policies are not unique to Derby. A similar situation has arisen with taxi licensing policy changes in Cumberland, where consultations have been held to address industry concerns. Taxi drivers across different regions are increasingly facing regulatory adjustments that could significantly impact their livelihoods.

Craig Thomson, a regional organiser for the GMB Union, raised concerns about the impact of these regulations on drivers' livelihoods:

"We all want a greener city, but these plans put all the burden on the working people of Derby. Private hire taxis are a central part of people's daily lives. These plans could see hundreds of the drivers forced out of work."

Taxi operators say the cost of acquiring newer vehicles is prohibitively high, with estimates suggesting an expenditure of around £15,000 to £20,000 for a compliant replacement. Some drivers fear they may be forced to leave the profession or seek licensing from neighboring councils with less stringent requirements.

Maddy Ahmed, owner of PJ Cars, a taxi firm in Derby, criticized the new policy:

"The age limit for vehicles of less than five years old is too much and very strict. It is going to have a big impact. Some drivers will leave their jobs and go elsewhere. Nobody can afford a £15,000-£20,000 car just like that. The running costs and the income drivers get are not going to match up."

While the council maintains that most drivers will remain unaffected by the change, the drivers themselves dispute this claim. Many argue that requiring newer vehicles places an unfair financial strain on them, particularly as they struggle with rising fuel prices and other operational costs.

A Derby taxi driver, Lee Roach, also voiced his frustration over the policy, calling it unnecessary. He mentioned an upcoming meeting between the union and the council:

"The new policy is pointless. It doesn't consider the financial realities that drivers face. There is a meeting planned later this week where we hope to get some clarity on this issue."

The Derby City Council defended its decision, stating that the policy was initially approved in 2019 and is part of a broader effort to improve vehicle standards across the city. A council spokesperson explained the rationale behind the changes:

"From April 1, Derby private hire vehicles presented for licensing for the first time must be under five years old. This is to ensure vehicles are in good condition and more likely to meet current safety and emissions standards, contributing to public safety, a cleaner environment and a better overall experience for passengers. Most current drivers will be unaffected by the change, as vehicles already licensed by the council can continue to be licensed until they are 15 years old. It will remain the case that vehicles above that age will be refused a licence unless approved for use following an exceptional condition vehicle check. We value our partnership with private hire drivers and are working with them to provide clarity and guidance on the update to licensing requirements."

Despite these assurances, concerns among taxi drivers continue to mount. Many argue that while the intention behind the policy may be valid, the approach taken by the council does not consider the financial challenges faced by drivers. The upcoming meeting between union representatives and the council is expected to be critical in determining the next steps for Derby's taxi industry.