Warrington police have carried out a targeted safety operation on local taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs), amid mounting concerns over licensing standards and out-of-area drivers.
The coordinated enforcement action took place on the evening of Saturday, 17th May, focusing on Warrington town centre and Stockton Heath. Officers from Warrington South Neighbourhood Policing Team teamed up with local council taxi licensing officers and representatives from Wolverhampton Council to inspect the roadworthiness and legal compliance of vehicles operating in the area.
A number of taxis were stopped and checked, with several breaches of licensing conditions identified during the operation.
A spokesperson for Warrington Police said:
“Through Operation Confederation, we are working with our partner organisations to provide reassurance to those using taxis in Warrington that they are safe to use and road-worthy, with enforcement action being taken where appropriate.”
The force also reiterated its support for properly licensed local drivers and its commitment to public safety, especially for people enjoying nights out in the town.
“Cheshire Police will continue to support the legitimate licensed drivers of Warrington throughout, ensuring those enjoying a night out in Warrington can return home safely,” the spokesperson added.
The presence of Wolverhampton Council officers highlights a broader issue affecting towns across the UK. A significant number of taxis operating in Warrington are licensed in Wolverhampton — a practice that has raised eyebrows within the industry. In fact, recent figures show that 96% of PHV licences issued by Wolverhampton Council in the past year went to drivers living outside the city.
Although this licensing model is entirely legal, it has prompted criticism from local authorities and driver groups who argue that inconsistent standards and enforcement between councils may pose a risk to passengers. Under current rules, councils cannot reject an application based on where the applicant lives, allowing drivers to shop around for licences from areas perceived to have more relaxed regulations.
As concerns grow, police and licensing bodies appear to be stepping up action to ensure that safety remains a top priority for passengers across Warrington and beyond.
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