Stratford-on-Avon District Council is inviting residents, licensed drivers, private hire operators, businesses, partner organisations, and other interested parties to have their say on a proposed new Taxi Licensing Policy.

The 12-week consultation runs from today, 28 September, to 21 December 2026. Feedback received during the consultation will be considered before the final policy is presented for adoption through the Council's democratic process.

The proposed policy updates the Council's existing approach, which was introduced in 2009 and amended in 2013. It aims to improve standards for licensed drivers and vehicles, strengthen safeguarding and accessibility expectations, and provide clearer information for both the trade and the public.

Key proposals include clearer expectations for drivers and passengers, updated information on data protection and use of the National Register of Taxi and Private Hire Licence Revocation and Refusals database, guidance on accessibility duties and assistance dogs, regular safeguarding and disability awareness training, revised enforcement provisions, and a requirement for drivers to subscribe to the DBS Update Service.

The draft policy also proposes changes to vehicle age requirements for hackney carriage and private hire vehicles. Under the proposals, diesel, petrol and LPG vehicles would be licensed until they reach 12 years of age, hybrid vehicles until they reach 15 years of age, and no vehicle age limit would apply to fully electric or hydrogen zero-emission vehicles with no exhaust emissions. The current minimum age requirement would also be removed.

Councillor Lorraine Grocott, Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Portfolio Holder, said: "The proposed new Taxi Licensing Policy is about maintaining high standards, supporting public safety and making sure our requirements are clear, fair and up to date. We want to hear from residents, the taxi and private hire trade, businesses and partner organisations so that their views can help shape the final policy."

Comments on the proposed policy must be submitted by 21 December 2026. Further information, including the draft policy and details of how to respond, is available on the Council's website.