A pivotal decision on the future of private hire operators Uber and Smartzi in Plymouth

Plymouth City Council has received applications from two firms seeking to expand their private hire operations.

Uber is requesting a five-year licence to operate a fleet of 160 vehicles annually in Plymouth. Meanwhile, Smartzi has applied for a more modest licence, proposing to operate one vehicle per year over the same period.

Council officers have outlined a strict framework for decision-making, which includes evaluating whether the directors of Uber and Smartzi meet the "fit and proper person" criteria outlined under the Plymouth City Council Act 1975.

This determination will involve examining each director's conduct, background, and overall suitability to manage private hire operations.

The applications have sparked significant interest, with the committee set to consider whether granting these licences aligns with the council’s comprehensive taxi licensing policy.

Balancing the Impact on Existing Trade

Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth’s cabinet member for community safety, acknowledged the delicate nature of the decision. While granting a licence to Uber or Smartzi could provide much-needed transport options for residents and visitors, it may also disrupt existing private hire trade in the city.

"Something has to change if our clubs, bars, and venues are to survive in the long term," Ms. Haydon remarked. She noted that nightlife patrons have faced challenges getting home in recent years, which could impact the viability of entertainment venues. However, she stressed that the committee’s decision must adhere to clear legal guidelines.

Procedural Checks and Requirements

Both Uber and Smartzi have completed critical procedural checks to meet licensing standards. Key steps in the application process include:

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificates: A thorough check of the nominated directors.
• Safeguarding Training: Directors attended relevant courses on 5 August 2024 and 10 September 2024 to ensure adherence to passenger safety standards.

For Smartzi, plans include establishing a Plymouth-based office for driver training and meetings, while bookings will be managed remotely via an app.

Uber has submitted a detailed operational proposal, highlighting its 24-hour compliance team, digital record-keeping systems, and lost property protocols.

However, questions remain about whether Uber’s digital-first approach will satisfy real-time oversight requirements mandated by the council’s policy.

Implications for Private Hire in Plymouth

The council’s report acknowledges the potential ripple effects of the decision on existing private hire operators in Plymouth. However, it emphasizes that this factor should not influence the outcome, as the committee's mandate is to assess applications solely on legal and regulatory criteria.

The Taxi Licensing Committee will also decide on the duration of the licences, which could range from one to five years, and whether to impose any additional conditions on the operators.

Looking Ahead to the Decision Day

While Uber’s proposal promises a sizable fleet and streamlined operations, Smartzi’s smaller-scale approach offers a localized model.

As the city anticipates the outcome, the decision will serve as a litmus test for the existing private hire services in Plymouth.

The council’s commitment to a transparent process ensures the decision will reflect Plymouth’s broader transport and safety priorities. For now, the city waits as the clock ticks down to 21 November 2024.