West Suffolk Council Reviews Taxi Licensing Rules for 2025

West Suffolk Council is set to review its taxi licensing policy following concerns raised by a local driver. The council had planned to enforce a rule from April 2025, limiting taxis and private hire vehicles to a maximum age of 15 years, excluding electric and zero-emission vehicles. This policy was introduced in 2022 as part of efforts to reduce pollution and modernize the taxi fleet. Similar policy changes are being discussed elsewhere, such as in Bournemouth, where taxi rules are changing to reflect evolving industry standards and regulatory considerations.

However, during a recent forum with taxi drivers, a driver highlighted new guidance from the Department for Transport, which states that setting an arbitrary age limit for vehicles "may be inappropriate." Instead, emissions should be regulated through vehicle testing. In response, the council has temporarily suspended the enforcement of the rule while it considers an amendment.

Taxi Industry Engagement and Policy Review

To improve communication with the taxi industry, West Suffolk Council has introduced forums for drivers and operators. These forums serve as a platform for discussing concerns, addressing regulatory updates, and fostering collaboration between the council and the taxi trade. The recent discussion on vehicle age limits was a direct result of this initiative.

Cllr Gerald Kelly, Cabinet Member for Governance, Regulatory and Environment, has expressed support for reviewing the policy. He will present the proposed amendment to the Cabinet next Tuesday.

Cllr Kelly stated:

"As the licensing authority with a responsibility to our communities, and to economic growth, we want many of the same things as the trade."

He further emphasized the importance of safety, accessibility, and maintaining high service standards within the taxi industry.

"We want people to feel and be safe, and to be confident both with the driver and the vehicle, and the taxi service as a profession."

Future of Taxi Licensing and Emission Regulations

West Suffolk Council is committed to working with taxi drivers to balance environmental goals with industry needs. The discussion comes as part of broader national changes, including the gradual phasing out of new petrol and diesel vehicles.

Cllr Kelly added:

"In all of this, we want to have more of an open dialogue between the council and the trade, to listen and to work collaboratively towards these common aims."

For now, taxi drivers in West Suffolk can continue using vehicles over 15 years old until a final decision is made. The outcome of next week's Cabinet meeting will determine the future direction of the policy.

”The setting of an arbitrary age limit may be inappropriate.”