New taxi drivers on the Isle of Wight could be required to have held a full driving licence for at least 3 years before applying for a taxi licence, under proposed changes which also include tougher safeguarding requirements and drug and alcohol testing provisions.
The Isle of Wight Council has approved a draft Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Statement of Licensing Policy 2027-2032, with residents now set to have 6 weeks to share their views.
Councillors agreed to launch the public consultation at a meeting on Thursday (29th October), giving Islanders and those working in the taxi industry an opportunity to comment on the proposed changes.
One of the most significant proposals would see the minimum period for which an applicant must have held a full driving licence increase from 1 year to 3 years.
The draft policy also introduces a new code of conduct designed to establish clear standards of behaviour and professionalism for all licensed taxi and private hire drivers.
Additional changes include expanded safeguarding training and more comprehensive provisions covering drug and alcohol testing.
Council officers have said the revised policy is intended to support the provision of safe, licensed drivers and vehicles for both residents and visitors to the Isle of Wight.
Although the proposed code of conduct would not create any new criminal offences, a driver’s compliance with its requirements could be taken into consideration when the council decides whether they remain a fit and proper person to hold a licence.
The consultation will be circulated to existing licence holders, councillors, town and parish councils, the police, school transport representatives and disability groups.
It will also be advertised on the Isle of Wight Council’s website, allowing members of the public to have their say.
Once the 6-week consultation has concluded, a further report will be considered by the council’s Licensing Committee before being submitted to the Environment and Community Protection Panel for approval of the policy.
