Decision details

8.1

The Licensing Authority is seeking approval of the revised Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver’s Licence Policy. First published in 2016, the policy provides information and guidance on:

•        applications

•        decision-making

•        enforcement

In providing a publicly available document, it allows:

•        transparency

•        accountability

•        consistency

8.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Waste and Street Scene Policy Committee:-

1.     Approve the revised Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Drivers Licence Policy as set out in appendix H of the report, with the exception of the following amendments:

a.     Condition 10a – The licensee is permitted to undertake bookings from only one private hire operator at any one time – use of multiple booking systems used simultaneously is not permitted – is removed. 

b.     Condition 10b is re-numbered Condition 10a. 

c.     Condition 10c – The licensee must display signage of the Private Hire Operator for which they undertake bookings – is renumbered
Condition 10b and is amended to say “The licensee must display signage as approved by the Licensing Service.” With the Private Hire Operator and Vehicle Licence Policy providing further information on requirements. 

d.     The requirement to undertake disability awareness training to be within 2 years from the time accredited organisations have been appointed. 

With the policy to come into force on 1st November 2022. 

8.3

Reasons for Decision

8.3.1

The Department for Transport recommends that licensing authorities make publicly available a cohesive policy document and to review this document every five years.

The licensing authority already has in place a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver’s Licence Policy document which has now been reviewed to take into account the recommendations in the Department for Transport Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards.

The document is designed to:

·       Provide individuals with a clear, consistent basis for submitting applications

·       Provide a clear, consistent basis for determining licence applications

·       Provide licensees with information on licensing requirements throughout the time they are licensed

8.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

8.4.1

There are no alternative options under consideration