Derby Taxi Drivers Protest New Vehicle Age Rule Amid Industry Concerns

A petition against Derby's new taxi rule has sparked concerns among local drivers and owners, with many questioning its impact on the industry. Michael Rowlands, the owner of private hire firm Sendacar, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with the new rule set by Derby City Council. The regulation mandates that newly licensed private hire vehicles must be no more than five years old, a change that Rowlands believes will significantly disrupt the local taxi industry.

The rule, which came into effect on April 1, 2025, stipulates that any private hire vehicle being licensed for the first time must be five years old or younger. While existing licensed vehicles, up to 15 years old, remain unaffected, drivers who need to replace their cars will face financial difficulties. The cost of purchasing a newer vehicle to meet the new regulations could be at least £15,000, which many taxi operators find burdensome.

Rowlands has expressed his concerns on various platforms, even setting up an online petition titled "Save The Derby Private Hire Industry" on Change.org. In his petition, Rowlands argues that this rule will force many drivers out of Derby, either causing them to abandon their profession or seek licensing in nearby areas.

Mr Rowlands, managing director of Sendacar, said:

"This particular clause affects every Derby driver, and we will not have a private hire industry if the council puts these barriers in place. It is a problem – it just does not make any sense."

The concerns raised by Rowlands are shared by many drivers, with the GMB Union, which represents hundreds of Derby’s private hire taxi drivers, echoing similar sentiments. The union believes that the new age limit could “threaten the licences of hundreds of drivers using vehicles made before 2021” and result in significant losses for the local taxi industry.

Derby City Council, however, defends the rule, stating that it was introduced to ensure vehicles are in good condition, comply with safety standards, and reduce emissions. The council emphasizes that the rule is part of a broader effort to provide a safer and more environmentally friendly transportation system for the city’s residents.

A spokesperson for Derby City Council remarked:

"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."

The council further explained that most current drivers would not be affected by the new rule as their vehicles, if already licensed, can continue to operate until they reach 15 years of age. The spokesperson also reassured drivers that existing vehicles would still be subject to safety checks to ensure they meet the required standards.

Despite these assurances, taxi drivers remain skeptical. Maddy Ahmed, a local taxi driver, voiced his frustration over the rule change, calling the new age limit “too strict” and warning that it would lead to job losses and disruption in the industry. He stated:

"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."

The rule change also poses a significant risk for Derby City Council, which could lose revenue if drivers choose to relocate their operations to other areas with less restrictive licensing regulations. Furthermore, the council would lose the ability to enforce safety standards on these out-of-town vehicles, further complicating the situation.

Mr Rowlands has met with Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson to discuss the issue. According to Rowlands, the talks were positive, and he felt that his concerns were heard. However, he remains uncertain about the future of the taxi industry in Derby and whether the council will reconsider the rule change.

"I now have a (March) 20 plate vehicle, but that would be too old if licensed for the first time. But the car performs very well and does the job to take people around the city and to the airport safely."

As the debate continues, the future of Derby's taxi industry remains uncertain, with both drivers and the local council at odds over the new regulation.

Strict taxi age limits in Derby could force drivers out