The availability of wheelchair-accessible taxis (WAVs) in North East Lincolnshire has dropped sharply, sparking concerns over accessibility for vulnerable passengers.
Figures show that while almost half of the hackney carriage fleet was once wheelchair-friendly, the proportion has now plunged from a peak of 47% to just 16%.
Council Committee Pushes for Change
In response, the council’s licensing committee has recommended changes to help reverse the decline. A report presented to councillors highlighted the “major concern and need to resolve the fast-dropping numbers of WAV vehicles.”
The committee has backed two key proposals, which will now go out to consultation with the taxi trade:
- Maintain a cap of 220 hackney carriages operating in the borough.
- Amend licensing policy so that all new hackney carriages – and existing WAVs when replaced – must be wheelchair-accessible.
While demand for WAVs is described as “low,” officers stressed that their importance to those who rely on them is “very high.”
What Caused the Drop?
Much of the decline has been linked to a 2013 policy that permitted WAVs to be replaced with standard saloon cars if the driver successfully applied for a medical exemption. That policy was scrapped in November 2024, but the council is now under pressure to act further to restore accessible provision.
Electric Taxi Proposal Rejected
The same committee also considered whether to restrict all new taxis to hybrid or electric vehicles. However, councillors voted against the measure, citing “high-cost concerns for drivers” and the lack of local charging infrastructure.
Next Steps
The recommendations will now form part of a trade consultation before any final decision is made. For passengers with mobility needs, the outcome could be crucial in determining whether North East Lincolnshire rebuilds a more inclusive taxi fleet.
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