Six Northampton taxis failed council safety checks

Spot safety checks on private hire cars and hackney carriages found six vehicles did not meet the required standards.

Officers from Northampton Borough Council licensing enforcement team, the police and Vehicle and Operators Services Agency carried out the safety checks as part of their ongoing public safety campaign.

During the operation, 17 private hire cars and seven hackneys cabs were stopped and inspected to check that they were roadworthy and met public safety standards.

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Out of 17 private hire vehicles, 11 were found to be in order. Six out of seven hackney cabs were found to be in order.

Offences included defective brake lights, no insurance certificate, dirty interior and failure to display a private hire plate correctly.

Other drivers were issued with advice or warnings about defective parts that were “wearing to the point of failure” and obscured vision.

Councillor Anna King, cabinet member responsible for licensing, said: “Private Hire Vehicles and Hackney Carriages Taxis licensed to operate in Northampton must pass planned safety tests during the year to make sure they meet the standards set by the town’s licensing conditions. As well as these tests, officers also carry out a number of spot checks throughout the year.

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“Taxi firms and drivers have a duty to make sure their vehicles are roadworthy and in good condition. We’ll be increasing the number of spot checks carried out and will take action against anyone who fails to meet the required safety standards.

“The safety of the public is our foremost concern.”

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