Stratford-on-Avon District Council has opened a 12-week consultation on a draft Taxi and Private Hire Licensing Policy for 2027–2032.
The consultation runs from 28 September to 21 December 2026. Residents, licensed drivers, private hire operators, businesses and other interested parties can comment before a final policy goes through the council’s adoption process. The draft would replace rules introduced in 2009 and amended in 2013.
Main proposals
The council says the draft aims to raise standards, tighten safeguarding and accessibility, and give clearer information to the trade and public. Proposals highlighted in coverage include:
- Drivers to subscribe to the DBS Update Service, with online status checks
- Regular safeguarding and disability awareness training
- Clearer guidance on accessibility duties and assistance dogs
- Use of the National Register of Taxi and Private Hire Licence Revocations and Refusals (NR3)
- Revised enforcement provisions
Vehicle age rules would change sharply. Petrol, diesel and LPG hackney and private hire vehicles could be licensed until 12 years old; hybrids until 15; fully electric or hydrogen zero-emission vehicles would have no age limit. The current minimum vehicle age requirement would be removed. PHTM notes the present policy generally blocks renewals once vehicles are over six years old.
From 1 January 2027, the draft would also require every licensed taxi and private hire vehicle to carry a working card or mobile-wallet reader where coverage allows, show an exterior card-accepted sign, and ban payment surcharges.
Responses go via the council consultation page or by email to vikki.goodman@stratford-dc.gov.uk. Nothing is adopted until consultation replies are considered and members decide.