Huntingdonshire Suspends Taxi Licences Over Safety Violations

Huntingdonshire District Council Suspends Taxi Licences Over Safety Concerns

Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) has taken decisive action against taxi drivers, operators, and vehicles following a report highlighting serious safety and regulatory concerns. The report, covering the period from October 1, 2024, to March 1, 2025, detailed multiple instances of driver misconduct, unfit vehicles, and regulatory breaches. Similar concerns have been raised in other regions, including a recent case where safety violations led to taxi suspensions in Kent, demonstrating a broader effort to enforce compliance within the industry.

During this period, six taxi drivers faced licensing action, with three suspensions, two refusals, and one revocation. The reasons for these actions ranged from overdue medical assessments to unreported accidents and outdated Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. Additionally, two taxi operators lost their licences due to failure to meet regulatory requirements.

Thirty vehicles were also affected, with suspensions issued for dangerous defects, lack of insurance, and accident damage. Some vehicles had their licences refused for failing to meet emission standards or being classified as unrepairable. Since January 2025, a further 16 vehicle licences have been suspended, refused, or revoked due to similar issues.

A spokesperson for HDC emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in taxi services:

"The safety of vehicles and the ‘fit and proper’ status of drivers and operators is of the utmost importance to us."

The council has implemented a Penalty Points system to enforce compliance and improve safety standards. Regular inspections and checks aim to ensure that taxis in the district remain safe and properly regulated.

The enforcement measures reflect a broader effort to uphold high standards in the taxi industry. Public safety remains a priority, with the council taking firm action against non-compliant drivers and vehicles.

”The council wants the public to feel confident that hackney carriages and private hires are safe.”