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V25-1049 : HACKNEY CARRIAGE - REVIEW OF SPECIFICATION

The Chief Executive reported that since the introduction of licensing the Council had restricted the type of vehicle that could be licensed as a Hackney Carriage. The principle was that the length of the vehicle should not take up an excessive space on a taxi rank, with an exception for vehicles capable of taking a disabled person in a wheelchair.

Since the Council set its specification for Hackney Carriages there had been a number advances in the general construction of vehicles particularly those classed as people carriers. For this reason it was felt important that the Panel reconsidered this specification. The Council had recently been requested by a proprietor to consider licensing a Mercedes-Benz Traveliner, and the vehicle was on display for members to inspect. The vehicle was the same length as a purpose built FX4 Hackney Carriage and was able to be fitted with a seating configuration which complied with the present specification but was not capable of carrying a passenger in a wheelchair.

However, it was clear that there was a demand for a vehicle capable of taking six passengers and it was proposed that the condition be relaxed. It was also considered important that a drivers security screen should be fitted as outlined at minute V22-1431/8.

RESOLVED

1. That Council alter its condition relating to Hackney Carriages to allow the Mercedes-Benz Traveliner to be licensed as a Hackney Carriage.

*Policy Decision

2. That the Chief Executive be authorised in consultation with the Chairman to draft a suitable condition accordingly.

3. That future applications for vehicles capable of carrying over five passengers be referred to members for approval.

Volume 25 Minute 1049

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