On Friday 22 July taxi enforcement officers from the Council working in partnership with colleagues at the Vehicle Operator Services Agency were out checking taxis and private hire vehicles in town.
The checks took place on Friday night between 7pm and 1am, and a total of 19 vehicles were involved. These important checks allow the council to ensure vehicles meet public safety standards. The check does not only examine the condition of the vehicle but also whether drivers have all compulsory documentation and are carrying required first aid and emergency equipment.
Three Hackney Carriages (black cabs) were stopped and each passed the check. 16 private hire vehicles were stopped, one was given an immediate prohibition notice due to the tyre tread being below the legal limit, and three were given delayed prohibition notices for faults with transmission and steering. A number of private hire drivers were cautioned for not having compulsory documentation, the cleanliness of their vehicle or not carrying a first aid kit or fire extinguisher.
Northampton Borough Council licensing officer Bruce Sturgess said, "Northampton people need to know that the cars they hire are roadworthy and operated in a safe manner. These unannounced tests mean drivers know they must keep their vehicle up to standard at all times as they never know when we might inspect them."
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