Consultation opens on taxi and private hire policy

20-JUN-08

The public, trade and other organisations are being asked for their comments on a new single policy to guide licensing of taxi and private hire vehicles in North Tyneside.

The Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy is the result of a review by North Tyneside Council. It updates the Council's existing separate policies in relation to hackney carriage and private hire licensing.

The Policy will provide guidance to applicants and other interested parties on the approach that the council will take on hackney carriage and private hire licensing matters. It will also guide licensing decisions.

Ken Wilson, North Tyneside Council's Head of Development, Strategy and Planning said: "Hackney carriages and private hire vehicles play an important role in local transport provision.

"The draft policy aims to promote public safety and consumer interests, clarify the licensing regime, encourage environmental sustainability and ensure high standards of professionalism in the trade.

"North Tyneside Council is committed to working closer with the community and welcomes feedback from the public through the consultation process."

The public consultation, opened this week, will continue until September 12, 2008.

In developing the revised policy North Tyneside Council welcomes views from members of the hackney carriage and private hire trade, residents and businesses in North Tyneside.

The council's draft policy is available on the council's website www.northtyneside.gov.uk and at council offices and libraries.

Copies of the statement can also be obtained from Licensing, North Tyneside Council, PO Box 113, Station Road, Killingworth, NE126 WJ.

Written responses must be received at the above address by 5pm on 12 September 2008.

Issued by:Jeanette Hedley