Statement of Taxi Licensing Policy

Introduction

The Licensing Team are currently in the process of drafting a Statement of Taxi Licensing Policy. The aim of this policy is to secure the safety and amenity of the travelling public and ensure that sustainable taxi services are provided. Upon completion of the draft Statement of Taxi Licensing Policy, a copy will be uploaded to this website for public viewing and consultation.

The Council, in adopting the licensing policy recognises both the needs of residents for safe, convenient and effective taxi transport and the importance of this provision to the local economy. The Hackney Carriage and Private Hire trade have a specific role to play in an integrated transport system. They are able to provide services in situations where public transport is either not available (for example in rural areas, or outside 'normal' hours of operation such as in the evenings or on Sundays), or for those with mobility difficulties.

In the preparation and publication of this policy Oxford City Council, as the Licensing Authority will have regard to:

• The Department of Transport Best Practice guidance
• Existing Oxford City Council policies
• Existing legislation and future tabled amendments
• Benchmarking with other Authorities
• Feedback from Trade
• Licensing Objectives.

Licensing Objectives

The Council will adopt and carry out its Hackney Carriage and Private Hire licensing functions with a view to promoting the following licensing objectives:

1. Safety and health of drivers and the public;
2. The establishment of a professional and respected Hackney Carriage and Private Hire trade;
3. To prevent crime and disorder and to protect consumers;
4.  Improve the local environment, economy and quality of life; and
5.  To promote the aims and vision of Oxford City Council and it's Partners.

These objectives will be taken into account by the Council when making decisions. In promoting these licensing objectives the Council will expect to see licence holders and applicants continuously demonstrate they can meet or exceed specifications set by the Council.

The aim of the licensing process, in this context, is to regulate the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire trade in order to promote the above objectives. It is the Council's wish to facilitate well-run and responsible businesses which display sensitivity to the wishes and needs of the general public. Its purpose, therefore, is to prevent licences being given to or used by those who are not suitable people taking into account their driving record, their driving experience, their sobriety, mental and physical fitness, honesty, and that they are people who would not take advantage of their employment to cause distress, harm or suffering to any passenger.

It is important that the Council's powers are used to ensure that Hackney Carriages and Private Hire vehicles in the City are safe and comfortable and that the powers are exercised in compliance with the European Convention on Human Rights.

Status

In exercising its discretion in carrying out its regulatory functions, the Council will have regard to this policy document and the objectives set out above. Notwithstanding the existence of this policy and any other relevant Council policy, each application or enforcement measure will be considered on its own merits.

Where it is necessary for the Council to depart from its policy, reasons will be given
for so doing.

Implementation

Upon implementation of this policy, the Council expects licence holders to comply with its terms immediately. It is acknowledged, however, that certain provisions may place financial obligations on existing licence holders and accordingly the Council is prepared to permit a transitional period which will be determined by officers acting under delegated powers, during which necessary changes must be made.

Accordingly, the full weight of this policy shall not take effect until the end of that period.