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FROM LONDON TO EDINBURGH FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the June edition of TaxiPoint magazine. This month’s content reflects a trade grappling with both change and pressure, from the streets of London to the ranks of Edinburgh.
We start with insight from Elly Baker, Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee. Her views on the Mayor of London’s new Action Plan and the outlook for the black cab trade provide key perspectives at a time when confidence in policy and future planning is being tested.
From north of the border, we’ve heard from cab drivers in Edinburgh raising the pressing issue of oversaturation. Their call for a vehicle cap to protect driver viability is not isolated. It’s a concern being echoed across the
country. As more vehicles enter the trade, the same pool of passengers is being divided, leaving many drivers struggling to earn a fair living. How authorities respond to this will shape the industry’s future.
This edition also includes further developments from across the sector. We hope it serves as a useful guide through the next month.
Looking ahead, TaxiPoint is preparing to launch a new product aimed at delivering even more trade insight. If you’re subscribed to our email or WhatsApp newsletters, stay tuned details will follow soon.
Perry Richardson
A LONDON CABBIE USES FINANCIAL SKILLS TO SUPPORT FELLOW TAXI DRIVERS WITH MORTGAGES AND PROTECTION ADVICE
London taxi driver has launched a mortgage and protection advice service aimed at helping self-employed drivers navigate financial challenges unique to the trade.
Paul Buck entered the cab industry in 2014 after completing the Knowledge, following a career in financial services that began in 2001. Initially working in the financial advice sector, Paul later explored trades like plumbing and electrical work before deciding to pursue a career as a black cab driver.
The idea for his new venture, The Mortgage Cabbie, took shape during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many in the taxi industry, Paul experienced a sudden loss of income and realised the need for an additional income stream that could run alongside driving a taxi.
He began studying for a new financial qualification and eventually moved into mortgage advising, identifying it as a quicker and more accessible path than his original plan. His previous exams were able to count towards the mortgage qualification, allowing him to fast-track his entry into the field.
With his combined knowledge of the financial sector and the day-to-day realities of self-
employment as a taxi driver, Paul believes he can offer insight that many mainstream advisers cannot. He understands the paperwork involved for self-employed mortgage applicants, including SA302s and tax overviews, and can relate to the specific needs of the trade including cab drivers with adverse credit.
Paul also wants to raise awareness among drivers about the importance of financial protection, including life, critical illness and income cover. He said many self-employed workers are without any form of pension or insurance safety net, and hopes his service can help close that gap.
Q&A
ELLY
BAKER
LONDON ASSEMBLY MEMBER AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE CHAIR
Elly Baker, London Assembly Member and Chair of the Transport Committee, spoke to TaxiPoint about the current state and future of the capital’s taxi industry. In this wideranging Q&A session, Baker discussed the crucial role black cabs play in keeping London moving, the shortfalls of Transport for London’s (TfL) current Action Plan, and the wider challenges around regulation, recruitment and long-term viability of the sector.
How important is the viability of the taxi industry to London as a whole?
“Taxis are an absolutely vital part of London’s transport mix and should be treated as such. Crucially taxis cover journeys that cannot easily be done in other ways so that Londoners can continue to get around for work, social and family time. There is thankfully now more awareness of the need for taxis for those who are less mobile, especially given taxis are wheelchair accessible, but almost all Londoners will have found a time where a taxi is the best option. It is less discussed how important taxis
are as an option for safe late-night travel, particularly for women and access to taxis when I needed them was so important to me when I was a younger woman. Put simply, if there are fewer taxis on the road these options are reduced, and for some Londoners this is a big impact.
“It’s also really important to recognise the role taxis can play in reducing congestion. If we are to have less cars on the road in London overall, which is of benefit to all Londoners if done in a realistic and managed way, reliable taxi services become more important, so that we know a private vehicle is an option for those journeys that need it.
“The taxi trade has also traditionally offered stable and skilled jobs, including for those who may not come through a traditionally academic route to work or have had other barriers. It used to be worth young Londoners doing The Knowledge and knowing they could build a stable life on the trade. It is a loss to London that we see less young Londoners having that opportunity.”
access. There is positive language in the Action Plan, which I think is welcome, but we urgently need to see these warm words backed by real action.”
Both the Taxi and PHV sectors are focused on the need for a cap on the number of vehicles permitted to be licensed by TfL and take work in the capital. Is this something that should be backed and could future Devolution plans play a part in achieving
Given we’re in the middle of a Transport Committee investigation on the Action Plan and what is missing from it, I do want to see what recommendations come from the evidence we receive. But personally, I think it’s bizarre TfL don’t seem to want the power to control private hire licensing.
“A cap could be so important to provide the right transport mix in London, and gives powers over congestion management on our roads, and as we’ve heard from drivers, has a real-life impact on the ability of taxi and private hire drivers to make a decent
“To make a cap work however, we also need control over cross-border hiring and proper data-sharing from private hire platform operators. This is where devolution could help reduce conflict between taxi and private hire, allow both to play the right roles, and allow TfL to actively manage the transport system.”
Would it be beneficial to understand and benchmark why taxi drivers choose to leave the industry and if so, how could this be done?
“This could definitely be done - TfL could work with driver organisations to run surveys and gather this information. However, we do have a very vocal and well represented taxi trade in London which has worked hard to unite on key issues. I do feel that the problem is not that we don’t understand the what’s wrong, but that TfL isn’t taking the action needed.”
In your view can the taxi industry recover and stem the declining number of black cabs on London’s roads? What action will it take and from who?
“Yes, it is absolutely possible to turn this around. Londoners won’t forgive us if we lose taxis from London’s streets, or if they become just a tourist attraction.
“But it will take focused effort on the real causes of the decline, from regional and national government, and a genuine commitment from TfL to actually intervene with the powers they have, and lobby for the ones they need.”
ELECTRIFYING PROGRESS
FREENOW’s recently released 2024
Sustainability Report outlines several developments and challenges related to electrifying the taxi and private hire sector in the UK. With London at the centre of progress and other cities such as Brighton and Edinburgh facing slower uptake, the report gives a clearer picture of regional disparities and the support mechanisms being deployed to drive change by the app firm.
In London, FREENOW has seen a stronger shift towards electrified mobility. According to the
report, fully electrified vehicles accounted for 20% of all FREENOW rides in the capital in 2024. Partially electrified vehicles made up 72%, leaving only 8% of rides using ICE vehicles. This places London ahead of other UK cities in terms of overall vehicle electrification on the FREENOW platform.
The availability of electric black cabs and growing consumer preference for lower-emission transport options are key factors. FREENOW drivers in London have also benefited from charging
IMAGE CREDIT: FREENOW
discounts and home charging incentives introduced through industry partnerships.
To address charging barriers, FREENOW partnered with bp pulse in early 2024. The deal gave UK drivers up to 25% off pay-as-you-go charging rates, covering fast, rapid and ultra-rapid public chargers across the bp pulse network.
From September 2024, an additional partnership with energy firm OVO was rolled out. This included access to cheaper home charging at 7p/ kWh, public charging discounts, and up to 2,800 free miles through OVO’s Charge Anytime scheme. The collaboration also offered discounted EV chargers and solar panel options.
So far, more than 230 FREENOW drivers in the UK have made use of these benefits, helping them overcome one of the primary barriers to EV adoption: affordable and reliable charging access.
Challenges in Brighton and Edinburgh
Outside London, progress is mixed. In Brighton and Edinburgh, FREENOW currently operates taxionly services, and the share of fully electrified vehicles remains low. According to the report, both cities had zero fully electrified vehicles on the platform in 2024.
However, a high share of partially electrified vehicles mainly range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) was observed. In Brighton, 72% of rides used these vehicles, with the remaining 28% using ICE vehicles. Edinburgh displayed similar numbers, with 71% of rides using REEVs.
The limited uptake of fully electric models in these cities is attributed to supply issues and vehicle suitability. The report highlights that allelectric models appropriate for the demands of taxi work remain unavailable or unaffordable for many drivers.
Danny O’Gorman, General Manager UK at FREENOW, said:
“The UK is making real progress in electrifying urban transport. In London alone, 78% of all vehicles on the FREENOW platform are electrified, and we continue to offer passengers the option to travel with an electrified black cab in the app. We’re also seeing customers actively choose greener journeys as 72% of all rides in 2024 were taken in partially electrified vehicles, and 8% were in fully electric ones.
“Our partnerships with bp pulse and OVO are already helping hundreds of taxi drivers cut charging costs, which is crucial for tackling one of the biggest barriers to making the switch to electric. However, the government must do more by exploring alternatives to support drivers, such as introducing a new interest-free loan scheme for drivers purchasing new taxis. This would replicate the success of Scotland’s Switched On Taxis Loan programme, aiding drivers in securing a new or used purposebuilt electric black cab. From our side, we will continue to work closely with cities, regulators, and partners to help shape a more sustainable transport future across the UK.”
T HOW TO PROMOTE YOUR TAXI BUSINESS IN 2025: ADVICE AND INSIGHT FROM TAXI TECH FIRM GIANTS ICABBI
he taxi and private hire industry continues to be as competitive as ever, and in 2025, standing out in a crowded market requires more than just reliable service. With customers turning to their phones for every service they need, a strong marketing approach has become a key part of running a successful taxi firm. Whether you’re looking to expand your customer base, improve visibility or build trust locally, how you promote your business will make a real difference. Taxi and PHV tech provider iCabbi has shared their expert advice on where firms should focus their efforts, combining digital and traditional techniques to get the most from marketing strategies this year.
Digital Marketing
A simple glance around and you’ll see everyone on their phones and devices – across all ages and demographics – whether that be on Google, social media or instant messaging. That’s why your marketing strategy needs to start with a strong digital presence.
Digital channels offer a direct, effective way to reach your customers in exactly the place they are spending time – the place where they go to find products, services and information.
Website and SEO
A well-structured, visually appealing and userfriendly website is essential for any local business trying to promote their taxi firm. However, it doesn’t stop at just a welldesigned website. Enhanced and effective SEO is the next step to ensure that traffic is being driven to your website and that potential customers are landing exactly where you want them. Most customers tend to look for taxis online through search terms such as ‘taxis near me’ and ‘nearby taxis’. If your website isn’t
optimised for such results, you could be missing out on potential bookings.
Here are some ideas to implement when it comes to improving the SEO of your business:
Local Listings / Google My Business: Claim your Google My Business profile and make sure information is updated and correct such as contact details, operating hours, photos and business info.
Use the Right Keywords: Target local keywords like "best taxi service in [City]" or "airport transfers [Location]". Use keywords naturally in your website content, blog posts and meta descriptions.
Make sure your website is fit for SEO purposes from a technical point of view: Ensure fast-loading pages and mobile-friendly design, create locationbased landing pages for different service area and add clear call-to-action buttons like "Book a Taxi Now".
Emails and Text
Sending personalised emails to customers can be a great way of getting repeated business with the same people and to make yourself their number one choice when it comes to taxis. Within your emails, it’s important to think about offering the right services at the right time, such as promoting airport transfers ahead of school holidays or peak travel times. Segmentation can also strengthen your marketing emails. Through categorising your email list based on customers’ habits, preferences and past bookings, you can ensure that you are always sending the right emails at the right time. Furthermore, using WhatsApp and traditional text messages can also be an even more effective marketing tool for your taxi firm. Texts can be used to promote referral reward schemes, highlight any recent exclusive deals and discounts or even send seasonal greetings. Text messages can also be a
great tool for securing advance bookings through sending reminders ahead of significant events such as New Year’s and local festivals. Emails and texts therefore are a great way of ensuring that your customers are always staying informed about your local taxi business.
Social Media
Social media can also be a powerful tool for taxi companies to connect with customers, increase brand awareness and drive more taxi bookings. Platforms such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram give taxi firms an important marketing channel to help engage with potential or existing customers. Below are a few ideas on how you can use social media channels to enhance your business:
• Make sure your social media profiles give a positive and professional impression of your business and remember to include business information such as phone number and website within your profile.
• Share engaging content. Ideas can include promotions and deals, showcasing your team and what they do and sharing online reviews.
• Get involved locally with location-based hashtags (e.g. #BrentfordTaxis #TaxisinLeeds) and tagging local businesses and partners.
• Engage with ‘trending topics’ like Valentine’s Day, Easter and other big events and occasions.
• Run competitions and giveaways on your page to boost engagement and follower numbers.
Traditional Marketing
Despite the importance of digital marketing, traditional offline marketing tools can still have a significant impact when considering how to market a taxi business, especially in the local community.
Leaflets/Flyers/Posters
Distributing flyers in high hotels, pubs and local businesses can help with bookings. Additionally, distributing these at transport hubs like train stations and airports can help to capture travellers looking for local transport. This can be taken a step further by using posters. Such posters can be designed to reflect your company high customer areas. These locations could be local gyms, universities or libraries.
Offering discounts or incentives on these flyers can further encourage potential customers to choose your services.
Merchandise/Giveaways
Merchandise, hand great way to get your brand out in the open. It can help remind previous customers about your taxi firm and be a way of reaching new customers too. Our advice would be to think of items which people actually use and keep such as pens, travel mugs, water bottles and keyrings.
Or how about coasters?
These are almost like a unique marketing platform. Placing them in local pubs, clubs, and cafes puts your service in the direct line of sight of potential customers at a time when they may need a taxi.
Vehicle Signage
Probably one of the most traditional and effective ways of marketing your taxi firm is using rolling billboards. These boards can be placed on the top of your taxi vehicles, designed with a special message and theme that perfectly reflects your own business. These boards will help expose your business to potential customers everyday and draw in more people wanting to use your taxi business. Ensure that these billboards are being used to their full extent by including your company name, phone
information. Always ensure that such information is
UBER ROBOTAXI SERVICES IN U FULL DEPLOYMENT FOCUSED AROUND DFT CONSULTATION
R
ide-hailing firms are preparing to launch autonomous services on UK roads, with Uber confirming readiness to deploy robotaxis once regulations are in place. The earliest rollout could take place in 2026, following the passing of the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act.
Andrew Macdonald, Uber’s senior vice president of mobility, told the BBC: “We’re ready to launch robotaxis in the UK as soon as the regulatory environment is ready for us.”
The AV Act, now law, outlines a clear framework for self-driving technology and paves the way for its use on public roads. Government consultations autonomous vehicles.
The Department for Transport says the act could unlock a £42 billion industry and create 38,000 skilled jobs by 2035. The act also focuses on road safety, aiming to reduce human error in collisions. Currently, human error accounts for 88% of all road incidents. Self-driving systems will need to
meet or exceed the safety performance of competent human drivers.
British companies like Wayve and Oxa are already trialling self-driving technology in locations such as London and Oxford. Wayve recently secured over $1 billion in investment for UK-based AI development.
Since 2018, the UK’s self-driving sector has drawn in £475 million and created around 1,500 jobs. The technology is expected to impact sectors facing driver shortages, including haulage and mining.
A key feature of the AV Act is the clear allocation of legal responsibility. When a vehicle is in self-driving mode, the driver is not liable. Instead, the responsibility lies with manufacturers, software developers and insurers.
An independent investigation body will examine incidents involving autonomous vehicles, mirroring aviation standards. Companies will be required to maintain vehicle safety and comply with UK laws continuously.
The legislation also targets improved mobility access, especially for people unable to drive and those in rural areas, aiming to reduce isolation and increase transport options.
What was the trade response?
A taxi industry insurance expert raised concerns over the UK’s readiness to embrace driverless taxi services.
David Sweeney, Head of Taxi Broking at The Taxi Insurer, expressed doubts over the pace of public acceptance. He said the public is unlikely to embrace the technology within the next two years, adding that people will expect years of proven safety before changing how they travel.
DAVID SWEENEY SAID:
“I’d be surprised if the public embrace driverless taxis within the next two years. I’d expect them to want to see several years of autonomous cars in successful operation and proof that they are safe before they accept them as the norm.
“It’s certainly a bold move from Uber, which could change the face of travel as we know it. But it does raise the concerning question of what would happen to the drivers currently employed
‘JUST TOO MANY VEHICLES CHASING THE SAME PASSENGERS’
E Q&A WITH KEITH AULD
dinburgh taxi driver Keith Auld recently launched a petition calling for a cap on the number of private hire vehicles operating in the city. The petition, which has gained over 1,000 signatures, raises concerns about falling driver earnings and growing competition from app-based services.
Titled “Cap Number of Private Hire Vehicles in licences is placing unsustainable pressure on the
IMAGE CREDIT: KEITH AULD
TaxiPoint spoke to Keith to understand more about the reasons behind the petition and what he believes needs to change.
Why do you believe the current level of private hire vehicles is unsustainable for taxi drivers?
“Since companies like Uber entered the UK market, the number of private hire vehicles has absolutely exploded. It’s completely changed the landscape. There are thousands more cars on the road now than there were just a few years ago, and it’s made it almost impossible for traditional cab drivers to compete fairly. We went through rigorous training, vehicle standards, and licensing. Now anyone with a smartphone and a car can flood the market. It’s not sustainable not for us, not for the roads, and certainly not for the longterm future of the trade.”
Have taxi drivers noticed a drop in earnings due to over-saturation?
“Without a doubt. Most drivers I know have seen a significant drop in their income. There’s just too many vehicles chasing the same passengers, and the competition from private hire—especially the app-based companies has driven down fares and increased waiting times for jobs. We’re working longer hours for less pay. It’s not just hurting us it’s hurting the quality of service too.”
What would you consider to be a fair and manageable cap on private hire vehicle numbers in the city?
“There needs to be a proper cap based on real demand. The council should commission a proper study and set limits that reflect what the city can actually support. A cap would help restore balance. Right now, the system is flooded. We’re not asking to shut out competition just to ensure that every driver has a fair shot at earning a living, and that the roads aren’t jammed with idle vehicles waiting for jobs.”
Have you or other drivers tried to engage with Edinburgh Council directly on this?
“Yes, plenty of us have. We’ve written letters, attended meetings, and spoken through our trade bodies. The message has been the same for years: this can’t go on. Some councillors have been sympathetic, but unfortunately, we haven’t seen meaningful change. Meanwhile, more and more vehicles get licensed, and the situation keeps getting worse.”
How do you respond to arguments that limiting vehicle numbers could reduce choice and availability for passengers?
“Choice is important, yes, but oversupply doesn’t mean better service. It just clogs the roads, adds pollution, and drives down standards. Passengers still want quality, safety, and properly vetted drivers. We’re not saying cut off supply entirely we’re saying make it manageable and fair. And let’s not forget: many of these app-based companies funnel their profits overseas. The money passengers spend on their rides isn’t staying in the local economy or reinvested in our communities. It leaves our shores and benefits shareholders elsewhere. That’s not sustainable, and it doesn’t serve Edinburgh or the UK.”
In
your view, is the over-saturation of private hire vehicles not only a regional issue in Edinburgh, but also a nationwide problem?
“It’s definitely a nationwide issue. You can look at any major city London, Manchester, Glasgow it’s the same story. Since Uber and similar companies arrived, private hire numbers have ballooned across the UK. The result has been lower earnings, more congestion, and a race to the bottom in terms of service and safety. It’s not just a local problem it’s a broken model that needs national regulation and proper oversight.”
“MOST DRIVERS I KNOW HAVE SEEN A SIGNIFICANT DROP IN THEIR INCOME…”
COULD BE AN OPTION FOR ALL TAXI AND PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE DRIVERS, SAYS DFT MINISTER
‘Spit kits’ could be an option for taxi and private hire vehicle drivers to help deter assaults, says DfT minister.
Labour MP James Asser has asked the Government whether it will extend access to DNA spit kits for licensed taxi and private hire drivers in England. The West Ham and Beckton representative raised the issue in a written question to the Secretary of State for Transport.
In response, Department for Transport (DfT) Minister Simon Lightwood said violence against
transport workers is unacceptable and must be taken seriously. He pointed to the Department for Transport’s current best practice guidance, which outlines the need for local licensing authorities to assess risks to drivers.
Lightwood suggested that this assessment could include the provision of spit kits as a way to deter assaults. These kits are used to collect DNA evidence in the event of a spitting incident, supporting criminal investigations.
Although the Department has not committed to rolling them out nationally, the guidance allows for local authorities to consider such measures.
The matter now lies with licensing authorities to interpret and act upon the guidance based on local risk assessments.
Lightwood said: “Violence against transport workers is unacceptable and something I take very seriously. That is why my Department's best practice guidance to taxi and private hire vehicle licensing authorities in England sets out my expectations for the sector including assessing risks to private hire vehicle drivers whilst they are at work. This could include the provision of 'spit kits' to help deter such repellent behaviour.”
Spit kits are forensic tools used to collect DNA evidence when someone is spat at. They are
commonly used by police and emergency services, and are increasingly being considered for use in the taxi and private hire industry to support criminal investigations and deter assaults.
The kits typically contain a sterile swab, gloves, a collection tube or container, and documentation for recording the incident. Some kits may also include wipes or protective equipment.
When a spitting incident occurs, the person involved can use the swab to collect the saliva sample from the affected area. This sample is then sealed in the container and sent to a forensic lab for DNA analysis. The collected DNA can be matched against national databases to identify suspects.
MAJORITY
OF TAXI DRIVERS TARGETED BY ‘CRASH FOR CASH’ FRAUDSTERS ARE
IN
THREE KEY URBAN CITIES, EXCLUSIVE NEW INSURANCE DATA REVEALS
The specialist taxi insurance provider, Merseyside-based Acorn Insurance, has identified a growing trend of 'crash for cash' fraud incidents targeting taxi drivers.
Data released by Acorn Group, exclusively for TaxiPoint, reveals that the majority of claims are concentrated in the ‘crash for cash’ hotspots of Birmingham, Bristol and London, with cases also rising across the UK.
Over the past two years, Acorn Group’s Fraud and Claims teams have flagged a total of 350 cases as potential 'crash for cash' scams, with a 15% increase over the last 12 months compared to the previous year.
Taxi drivers, especially those operating near pick-up areas without CCTV, are being singled out by fraudsters who deliberately stage accidents to make fraudulent insurance claims. And the fraudsters are becoming more brazen in their approach and tactics, with some of the most popular scams being:
• Perpetrators throwing their bikes on the floor and claiming a collision, although no accident has taken place.
• Driving slowly and then braking sharply.
• Riders targeting reversing vehicles by deliberately driving into them.
• Fraudsters are intentionally blocking junctions to make policyholders reverse, while a moped rider approaches from their blind spot in an attempt to cause a collision.
James Fowle, Head of Group Fraud and Claims Strategy, Acorn Group, said: “Fraudsters are becoming more brazen in their tactics, and taxi drivers are often seen as easy targets. We are committed to protecting our customers from these scams by using cutting-edge fraud detection tools and ensuring claims are handled with utmost scrutiny. If any of our customers do fall foul of this type of fraud, our teams work closely with our policy holders to ensure they have level of support they need and are back on the road as quickly as possible.”
Joe O'Connell, Head of Claims at Acorn Group, added: “As fraudulent claims become more prevalent and sophisticated, taxi drivers must take proactive steps to protect themselves. By staying vigilant and following key fraud prevention steps, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these schemes. Leveraging dashcam footage, verifying passenger details, and promptly reporting suspicious incidents can make all the difference. Awareness and collaboration with insurers are crucial in tackling fraud and ensuring a safer, more secure industry for all." To combat these scams and protect its customers, Acorn has implemented a robust approach to identifying and managing this type of fraud.
Its specialist intelligence team is trained to detect fraud at an early stage, ensuring swift action against suspicious activities. Enhanced communication with policyholders in suspected fraud cases allows for greater transparency and efficiency, and advanced data analysis and networking tools enables Acorn to identify links between fraudulent claimants.
GOVERNMENT TALKS OF ‘SIGNIFICANT CHANGE’ TO TAXI & PHV LICENSING RULES
The Department for Transport is exploring ‘significant change’ to overhaul how taxi and private hire vehicle licensing is managed across England.
The move could give all local transport authorities, including larger strategic bodies, more control over taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing in their area.
The proposal was revealed by Transport Minister Simon Lightwood in response to a parliamentary question from Labour MP Lorraine Beavers. She asked if the Government intended to tighten rules around Uber drivers and other private hire operators working outside the area they are licensed in.
In reply, Lightwood confirmed the Department is preparing to consult on changes that would allow licensing to be handled across broader regions. The aim is to improve the consistency of standards, strengthen enforcement and support better integration with local transport planning.
A larger-scale approach, the Minister suggested, would cut down on drivers licensing in areas with less strict controls but working elsewhere, a
practice commonly known as cross-border hiring. It is a longstanding problem that many local authorities and licensed drivers have raised concerns about.
Lightwood said: “The Department is considering options to improve the current regulatory position in respect of taxis and private hire vehicles and will consult shortly on whether to make all local transport authorities, including Strategic Authorities, responsible for taxi and private hire vehicle licensing.
“We believe administering taxi and private hire vehicle licensing across a larger footprint would increase the consistency of standards and enable more effective use of enforcement powers across a whole functional economic area and facilitate integrated local transport planning. Greater economies of scale should also increase the efficiency in taxi and private hire vehicle licensing and the sector. This should reduce the factors that induce people to license out of their usual working area.
“This would be a significant change for the sector, and responses to the consultation will help inform the final decision.”
TACKLING CROSS BORDER: GOVERNMENT REVEALS IT WILL CONSULT
ON SHIFTING TAXI
LICENSING
TO ALL LOCAL TRANSPORT AUTHORITIES
and more efficient operations.
The DfT believes the change could help tackle long-standing concerns in the sector, such as drivers being licensed by authorities far from where they work. Centralising oversight through LTAs may reduce the appeal of this practice by creating more uniform rules and enforcement.
BUSINESS NEWS CORDIC UNVEILS
FREENOW has appointed Tony Fletcher as its new Global Marketing Director. The multi-mobility app, with taxis at the core of its service, aims to enhance its European marketing operations under Fletcher’s leadership.
He will oversee both central and regional marketing teams. His remit includes launching targeted campaigns designed to engage users across the company’s 150-city network.
Fletcher said: “FREENOW is a wonderful company, with strong cultural values and a fantastic team. I’m incredibly proud to be joining this next exciting stage of our growth throughout Europe. I’ll be working with marketing colleagues from multiple countries to strengthen our core taxi offering and improve our connection with customers in all of our markets.
“FREENOW is renowned for our commitment to working with cities and the taxi industry to help cities thrive. My focus will be on enhancing actions that support the hundreds of thousands of taxi drivers, and helping them to connect with more passengers, with FREENOW as their first choice, driving brand love with more value and meaning to customers all over Europe.“
FRICTIONLESS OPEN SHARING TO CHALLENGE RIDE-HAIL DOMINANCE
Taxi and private hire tech firm Cordic has launched a new feature that enables fleets to share jobs across dispatch platforms without technical integration or manual input. Named Frictionless Open Sharing, the system is part of Cordic’s new SuperYes platform.
The launch responds directly to industry demands for a way to collaborate across systems. Fleet operators have voiced concerns about missed opportunities and the growing threat posed by ride-hail services. Cordic’s platform aims to remove technical barriers and bring together independent fleets.
SuperYes allows fleets to share and receive jobs, regardless of the dispatch software in use. This move helps address service gaps where passengers are left waiting and drivers remain idle. It also aims to reclaim jobs lost to ride-hail platforms due to limited availability from individual fleets.
Frictionless Open Sharing is powered by Cordic’s Cher AI, which acts as a digital operator to coordinate job distribution between systems. The company claims this removes the cost and complexity of traditional integrations.
A TRANSPORT SETS FOCUS ON ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL AND ELECTRIC FLEET IN THE NORTHWEST
new taxi and private hire firm has launched in the Northwest of England with a specific focus on supporting passengers with disabilities and special needs.
Maize Transport, based in Wirral, Liverpool and Chester, is offering a dedicated taxi service that aims to deliver practical and reliable transport options for people with mobility challenges. The company has introduced a modern fleet of easyaccess and wheelchair-friendly vehicles to help meet the region’s accessibility demands.
Each vehicle is fitted with ramps and safety systems designed to support passengers with a wide range of needs. Drivers have received additional training to assist customers requiring mobility support, with services tailored to ensure comfort and safety.
Alongside the new service, Maize Transport has invested in green technology. A growing number of its vehicles are fully electric, powered by electricity from the company’s own solar farm. The move supports a shift towards lower-emission taxi travel in the region.
Passengers can now book and manage journeys using a new mobile app and website, where they can choose vehicle type and track their driver in real-time.
Maize Transport’s Operations Manager, Mark Newbery, said the company’s aim is to give all passengers a dependable service that supports both accessibility and sustainability. The firm is positioning itself as a new option in the region’s taxi market with an inclusive and environmentally conscious approach.
UBER TO ROLL OUT RIDE-SHARE SERVICE ACROSS UK CITIES – BUT LONDON WAITS
Uber users across major UK cities will soon have the option to cut fares by sharing rides with other passengers travelling in the same direction. The service, called UberX Share, is set to be available nationwide by the end of June, with the exception of London.
The new offering allows riders to save up to 20% on the cost of a journey. It operates by matching users heading in similar directions and combining their trips into a single car journey. Uber claims the added travel time for shared rides will average no more than eight minutes.
A trial of the service has been running in Bristol since November 2024. According to Uber, the scheme has been particularly well used by nighttime leisure travellers and commuters.
Londoners, however, will need to wait longer. Uber stated that differing local regulations mean the service will not launch in the capital until later this year.
The company has offered a similar ride-share service in the past. UberPool was suspended in March 2020 following the start of the coronavirus pandemic and has not yet returned.
LONDON NEWS LONDON TAXI NUMBERS FALL BY A THIRD OVER 15 YEARS AS INDUSTRY FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE IF TRENDS CONTINUE
London’s taxi industry has seen a sharp and prolonged fall in both driver and vehicle numbers, with the decline showing no sign of slowing. Official Transport for London (TfL) figures reveal a drop of over 30% in licensed taxi drivers and nearly 35% in taxi vehicles since 2009/10. If current trends continue, the next five years could see the licensed taxi trade shrink to levels not seen in living memory.
In 2009/10, there were 24,914 licensed taxi drivers in the capital. As of 2024/25, that figure has dropped to 16,676 a fall of 8,238 drivers, or 33%.
Taxi vehicle numbers have also declined from 22,445 to 14,570 over the same period, marking a 35% reduction.
The drop has been gradual but consistent. From 2009/10 to 2015/16, total driver numbers stayed relatively stable, hovering around the 25,000 mark. But from 2016/17 onward, the fall became more pronounced. By 2019/20, driver numbers were
down to 22,337. The pandemic then accelerated the decline, with the total plummeting to 20,786 in 2020/21 and falling further each year since.
The number of All London drivers, also known as ‘Green Badge’ cabbies, has dropped from 21,334 in 2009/10 to 15,058 in 2024/25 a fall of 6,276 or 29%. Suburban driver numbers, also known as ‘Yellow Badges’, have seen a steeper drop, falling from 3,580 to 1,618, a 55% decrease.
Taxi vehicle numbers follow a similar pattern. After a peak of 23,099 in 2011/12, numbers have steadily decreased. In the years just before the pandemic, they stood at around 20,000, then dropped to 13,461 in 2020/21. The recovery since has been limited, with the latest figure of 14,570 still 7,875 below the 2009/10 total.
Looking ahead, if these trends persist, the taxi industry could see driver numbers fall below 15,000 by 2026 and potentially under 13,000 by 2029. Vehicle numbers may also dip below 13,000 over the same period. This would represent a further 22% decline in drivers and a 10% fall in vehicles within five years.
Unless significant changes are made to attract new drivers, support fleet renewal, and improve working conditions, the decline looks set to continue both in terms of retaining and recruiting cabbies.
L LONDON TAXI DRIVERS WARNED OFF USING PRAED STREET ‘POP UP’ RANK AMID CRACKDOWN
icensed taxi drivers are being urged to stop using the unofficial pop up rank on Praed Street near Paddington Station, following warnings of enforcement action by Westminster Council and Transport for London (TfL).
A pop up rank refers to a location where taxi drivers wait for work that is not officially designated as a taxi rank by the authorities. These spots can sometimes emerge in busy areas where there is perceived demand, but they operate without formal permission and are subject to enforcement.
Paul Kirby, Executive Senior Officer at the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA), has warned members to avoid the area after recent meetings with TfL and the local council made clear their intention to issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs)
and consider further licensing action against drivers found using the location.
Kirby said in TAXI Newspaper: “Any drivers still using Praed Street to rank for work, PLEASE DON’T.
Westminster and more importantly TfL are actively monitoring for both PCNs (now £80) and to take licensing action against you.
“I have, this month, attended a meeting with both the Council and TfL and the outcome is not good. I fully understand why you would be there but after receiving numerous complaints from local councillors, the Hilton Hotel and residents, the authorities feel they must act.”
Drivers are also being warned that appeals are unlikely to be successful. “Should you receive a PCN or TfL Compliance complaint, we are told that any challenge or response will not be accepted,” added Kirby.
CHOOSE
TAXI
CAMPAIGN
LAUNCHED TO
BOOST LONDON CAB USE AND TACKLE NEGATIVE HEADLINES
A new campaign aimed at encouraging greater public use of licensed London taxis has been launched by London Taxi PR.
The initiative, named ‘Choose Taxi’, comes as a response to recent media coverage around the capital’s iconic black cab trade. The campaign hopes to connect with customers and promote engagement in a light-hearted and accessible way, while helping to drive work back towards cab drivers.
CHERWELL COUNCIL UNVEILS REVISED TAXI LICENSING POLICY WHICH INCLUDES REMOVING AGE LIMITS ON ELECTRIC TAXIS
Cherwell District Council has presented its draft taxi licensing policy for hackney carriage and private hire vehicles, setting out several updates intended to enhance safety, accessibility, and environmental standards. The policy is now open for consultation with the public and the trade.
The proposed policy brings Cherwell in line with the latest Department for Transport (DfT) best practice guidance published in November 2023. Key changes include the introduction of an Inclusive Service Plan (ISP), strengthened vehicle and driver safety checks, and new incentives to encourage cleaner vehicles.
Operators with ten or more vehicles will be required to ensure that at least 20% of their fleet is wheelchair accessible by January 2028. All operators must identify customer needs at the time of booking and must not charge extra for requirements related to disabilities or assistance animals.
Daily vehicle checks will now be mandatory, with documentation required to ensure roadworthiness. The Council will also conduct biannual vehicle inspections at its own depot, replacing the second MOT currently required. These inspections will focus specifically on licensing standards and will not cost more than the existing MOT requirement.
Driver safeguarding is set to improve through automatic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
checks every six months via a service called Taxi Plus. This approach meets the DfT’s expectations and maintains current cost levels for licence holders.
To encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles, Cherwell plans to remove age limits for electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles and extend age limits for hybrids, particularly those with wheelchair access.
The draft also introduces revised penalty point arrangements. Offences will now carry penalty points that remain valid for at least three years for drivers, and five years for private hire operators.
Public and trade consultation will run for eight weeks and include at least one engagement event. The policy aims to support both inclusion and the district’s net zero target for 2030, while ensuring compliance with national standards.
PRIVATE
HIRE DRIVERS PROTEST OVER COUNCIL’S PLAN TO CUT VEHICLE AGE LIMIT TO JUST FIVE YEARS
Private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers in Derby have voiced strong opposition to council plans that would drastically reduce the age limit of vehicles eligible for private hire licences.
Almost 100 drivers attended a rally organised by GMB union outside Derby City Council’s offices. The demonstration was part of an ongoing campaign against proposals to cut the licensable age of vehicles from 15 years to just 5 for new licence applications.
The GMB, which represents private hire drivers across the region, said the proposed change could lead to many drivers being forced out of the trade due to the cost of purchasing newer vehicles.
Campaigners argue that while the push for lower-emission transport is necessary, the cost of upgrading vehicles should not fall solely on drivers already managing tight margins.
TAXI MANUFACTURER LEVC ‘DISAPPOINTED’ AT GREATER MANCHESTER CLEAN AIR ZONE DELAY
LEVC has voiced concern over the delay in Greater Manchester’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) implementation. The vehicle manufacturer said the move will extend the presence of older, higheremission taxis on city streets and hold back efforts to lower urban pollution.
The Clean Air Zone was expected to encourage the shift towards cleaner, wheelchair-accessible taxis.
LEVC, which builds the TX electric taxi, had committed £3 million in additional support to assist Greater Manchester drivers with the transition. The firm said it still
hopes the scheme will begin by the end of 2025.
Manchester City Council has recently decided to extend the operational age limit of licensed vehicles to 17 years.
LEVC said this decision compounds the delay’s impact by keeping more polluting vehicles in service longer.
The manufacturer highlighted that over 1,000 hackney carriage taxis in Manchester currently fall short of clean air standards. These could be replaced with the TX model, which meets local licensing requirements and offers zeroexhaust emission capability.
UNLICENSED SCHOOL RUNS: GLOUCESTER DRIVER PROSECUTED FOR UNLICENSED AND UNINSURED PHV WORK
A Gloucester private hire driver has been prosecuted for operating without a valid licence or insurance.
Moosa Varachhia was found to have driven a private hire vehicle on several occasions between April and May 2024 without the required private hire driver licence. He also had no valid insurance while carrying out contracted home-to-school journeys for a local private hire operator.
The case was heard at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on 12 May 2025. Mr Varachhia pleaded guilty to both offences. He told the court he believed the renewal of his licence was being handled by Tewkesbury Borough Council while he was out of the country.
Mr Varachhia was fined £180. He was also ordered to pay £175 in court costs and a £48 victim surcharge.
The enforcement action was led by Tewkesbury Borough Council’s Licensing team. The investigation was supported by the council’s Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit and One Legal, which provides legal services across four Gloucestershire councils.
Mr Varachhia is no longer employed as a private hire driver after being disqualified from driving in April 2025.
EDINBURGH TAXI DRIVERS HANDED 12MONTH EXTENSION ON VEHICLE AGE LIMITS
Taxi drivers in Edinburgh have been granted a oneyear extension allowing older vehicles to remain on the road despite previous rules requiring them to be phased out.
On 19 May, councillors on the Regulatory Committee agreed to continue a temporary relaxation of the city’s hire vehicle age and emissions policy. This means petrol and diesel taxis and private hire vehicles over 10 years old can keep operating, provided they meet other licensing requirements.
Under the existing rules, which came into effect in 2021, vehicles must be 10 years old or less and either meet Euro 6 emissions standards or be retrofitted Euro 5 vehicles that meet Council standards. Electric vehicles are treated differently,
with some allowed to operate up to 14 years of age if they pass six-monthly compliance tests.
The move follows ongoing concerns from trade representatives about the lack of available compliant vehicles and the costs of replacement. Council records show that 67% of vehicles over 10 years old are currently failing their annual roadworthiness tests, a key concern for licensing officers.
Despite this, the taxi and private hire fleet has modernised overall, with the average vehicle age now under six years. There are 1,111 licensed taxis and 2,882 private hire cars in the city. Nearly all now meet Low Emission Zone standards, which began enforcement in June 2024.
TELFORD
AND WREKIN COUNCIL INTRODUCES RESTRICTED
PRIVATE HIRE LICENSING POLICY TO HELP SUPPLY SCHOOL TRANSPORT
Telford and Wrekin
Council approved a new policy to introduce restricted private hire licences, aimed at drivers and operators working on contracted services such as school transport.
The Licensing Committee met on 13 May 2025 to formalise the move. The new Restricted Operator, Vehicle and Private Hire Driver Licences Policy will allow applicants to apply for licences limited to pre-agreed, non-public hire work. This includes routes such as local education transport contracts. These licences will not permit traditional private hire journeys booked through phone calls or app-based systems.
The restricted driver licences will be offered with lower fees than standard dual driver licences, recognising the reduced enforcement and administrative requirements. A one-year restricted licence will cost £112, while a three-year version will be £130.
Alongside this, the Council has agreed to amend its current licensing rules around vehicle
window tints. The new requirement allows factory-fitted privacy glass with at least 30% light transmission behind the Bpillar. After-market tinting remains prohibited. This brings the Council’s policy in line with
reduce the number of drivers seeking licences from out-of-area authorities where tint restrictions are more lenient.
The Council highlighted the difficulty the local private hire industry faces in attracting new
Department for Transport guidance and neighbouring authorities such as Wolverhampton and Shropshire. Officers noted that the previous 34% requirement had become a barrier for drivers seeking to licence vehicles with manufacturer-standard tints. The change is expected to ease the cost burden on the trade and
drivers. With the growing competition from food and parcel delivery jobs, it is hoped that the revised policy and fees will make Telford a more attractive area to obtain a licence.
Licensing Committee members agreed the changes would help address driver shortages and support local employment.
MIDDLESBROUGH LICENSING
COMMITTEE REJECTS PRIVATE
HIRE LICENCE FOLLOWING
The application, referenced 14/25, came before the Committee on 28 April 2025. The applicant, who previously held a Combined Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Driver Licence from October 2018 to March 2023, had that licence revoked following drug driving allegations.
Cleveland Police reported that the applicant had been arrested on 8 and 10 February 2023 on suspicion of drug driving. The first incident involved a roadside drug test which returned a positive result, and and additional legal penalties.
Although no further action was taken in relation to the second incident on 10 February 2023, the Council’s Policy required a seven-year period free of any drug-driving related convictions before a licence application could be considered. The applicant’s driving ban ended on 15 August 2024, meaning the relevant conviction-free period would not expire until August 2031.
During the hearing, the applicant acknowledged the report’s accuracy and claimed that the THC was ingested
responsibility for the events.
The Committee considered the application in line with the Council’s Licensing Policy and concluded that the applicant did not meet the requirements. There were no exceptional circumstances to justify a departure from the Policy.
The decision means the applicant will not be eligible to reapply for a licence until at least 2031. He retains the right to appeal the decision at the Teesside Magistrates’ Court within 21 days.
ENFORCEMENT NEWS
FIVE TAXI AND PHV SUSPENDED FOLLOWING WAKEFIELD LICENSING CHECKS
joint traffic operation carried out by West Yorkshire Police and Wakefield Council in the Ossett and Stanley areas on Monday 12 May.
The enforcement action formed part of a wider multi-agency operation involving the North West Neighbourhood Policing Team, Roads Policing, the Off-Road Bike team, Wakefield Council Taxi Licensing, Waste Traders and Counter Fraud teams, and the DVLA.
During the course of the operation, officers stopped 94 vehicles to check documentation and vehicle condition.
Among those, 26 taxis and private hire vehicles were inspected by Wakefield Council’s licensing officers.
Of the taxis inspected, five were suspended from operating. Three were taken off the road for failing to carry a fire extinguisher as required by licensing conditions. Two further suspensions were issued due to faulty lighting.
PRIVATE HIRE CHECKS IN HUDDERSFIELD LEAD TO SUSPENSIONS AND ENFORCEMENT ACTION
Private hire vehicles were the focus of a joint enforcement operation carried out on Halifax Road, Huddersfield, on Thursday 8 May. The checks led to immediate suspensions, defect notices, and further regulatory action.
West Yorkshire Police officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) joined forces with the DVSA, DVLA and local taxi licensing officials to inspect 23 private hire vehicles. Two vehicles were suspended on the spot due to safety concerns, preventing them from operating until repairs are
Aprovisional licence holder has been reported to court after being stopped in Beam Park while driving a licensed private hire vehicle without insurance.
According to the Metropolitan Police’s South Hornchurch and Beam Park team, the driver was using their partner’s vehicle, a Toyota Auris, which was licensed by Transport for London (TfL) as a private hire car.
Police confirmed the individual held only a provisional driving licence and had no insurance in place at the time. Officers said the incident took place on Beam Park Ward and the driver has now been reported to court.
Images released by police showed the vehicle to be displaying private hire licence markings, raising further concerns over potential misuse of licensed vehicles by unqualified individuals.
TfL regulations strictly prohibit provisional licence holders from operating licensed private hire vehicles. Insurance is also a legal requirement for all drivers on public roads.
A Met Police South Hornchurch and Beam Park spokesperson said: “The driver of this vehicle thought it was acceptable to drive their partners car with a provisional licence and no insurance on Beam Park Ward. It’s not! Driver reported to court.”
IMAGE CREDITS: MET POLICE SOUTH HORNCHURCH AND BEAM PARK
OUT-OF-AREA LICENSING CHECKS IDENTIFY BREACHES AMONG WOLVERHAMPTON-
REGISTERED PHVS IN WARRINGTON
Taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing officers and police in Warrington have reported multiple breaches by out-of-area licensed drivers following joint operations. The checks focused on passenger vehicles operating in the Town Centre and Stockton Heath.
Working alongside licensing officers from Wolverhampton City Council, Cheshire Police inspected a number of vehicles. Several drivers licensed in Wolverhampton were found to have breached licensing conditions, though exact details of the offences have not been released.
The enforcement formed part of Operation Confederation, a multi-agency initiative designed to ensure taxi and PHV passengers in Warrington are using vehicles that are safe and roadworthy.
Elsewhere in Cheshire, a separate operation was carried out in Macclesfield involving Cheshire Police, Cheshire East Council and City of Wolverhampton Council officers. Thirteen private hire vehicles licensed by Wolverhampton were checked and all were found to be compliant.
‘TAXI COP’ ENFORCEMENT NIGHT FINDS LIGHTING, BADGE AND SIGNAGE ISSUES
A late-night compliance operation by Avon and Somerset Police identified several issues among taxi and private hire vehicles in the region.
PC Patrick Quinton, known locally as the force’s ‘Taxi Cop’, conducted checks on around 38 vehicles overnight. While the majority were found to be operating legally, several drivers were flagged for breaches.
Two vehicles had lighting faults, while two more had problems with the display of driver badges. Another two were found with signage not meeting regulation. One private hire vehicle was caught parked on a taxi rank while its driver went shopping, in breach of licensing rules. A separate
incident saw a driver fail to stop at a red light in front of the officer.
PC Quinton also stopped a driver on the M32 for speeding and carried out alcohol and drug tests. No offences were recorded in that instance, and no vehicles were found with bald tyres or mechanical defects.
