Darlington Borough Council has decided not to proceed with making CCTV systems mandatory in licensed taxis and private hire vehicles, following strong attendance and feedback from local drivers at a recent council meeting.
According to a report by PHTM, several licensed drivers turned up in person to lodge formal objections to the proposal, ensuring their views were recorded regardless of the council’s final position.
One driver told PHTM that members of the local trade felt it was essential to make their objections known in case the national white paper later made CCTV compulsory, stating:
“We as members of the local trade felt it important to turn up and be present because with all things to do with policy it can change like the wind.”
The driver added that, as it stands, “it’s business as usual,” praising the council’s approach to licensing and describing it as “an amazing job,” with high standards and confidence in the local trade.
The council reportedly confirmed during the meeting that it would not be seeking to make CCTV mandatory, but if national policy were to require it, they would have no choice but to implement it.
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DM News Commentary
This decision marks a significant moment for taxi and private hire drivers in Darlington, many of whom have voiced concerns about the costs, data management, and privacy implications of mandatory CCTV systems. While national legislation could still introduce a blanket requirement in the future, Darlington’s approach demonstrates a willingness to listen to local trade feedback — something not always seen in other licensing areas.
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