Uber Expands in Hartlepool with a New Five-Year Private Hire Licence

On 30 November 2024, Hartlepool Borough Council granted Uber Britannia Limited a five-year private hire operator’s licence.

This approval was finalized during a meeting of the Regulatory Services Committee, marking a significant step for the ride-hailing company’s expansion into the Hartlepool area.

Uber's Technology and National Expansion

Representatives from Uber explained that the company uses app-based technology to manage bookings and track records through a cloud-based system, unlike traditional taxi services that rely on office setups.

This system is aligned with Uber's UK-wide operations, where the company holds over 80 licences across the country. Uber’s new presence in Hartlepool adds another transportation option for residents, diversifying the town’s private hire market.

Impact on Hartlepool’s Transport Market

Uber’s entry into Hartlepool is expected to intensify the competition in the local private hire market.

As the company is known for providing more flexible transportation options through its app, it may provide greater convenience for users, especially those looking for alternatives to traditional taxi services.

The approval by Hartlepool Borough Council signals that the town is adapting to changes in the transport sector and offering more options for its residents.

Uber’s Growing Presence in the UK

The approval in Hartlepool is part of Uber’s ongoing expansion across the UK.

In addition to the new license in Hartlepool, Uber holds private hire operator licenses in major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Bristol.

These licenses are granted by local authorities, including Transport for London (TfL) in the capital.

Uber’s national growth reflects the company’s increasing footprint and its ability to compete with traditional taxi services in various cities across the country.