The comprehensive updates, which took effect on September 1, 2026, streamline the application process for drivers while modernising vehicle standards and passenger requirements across the county.

The licensing sub-committee greenlit the fare adjustment following a low-turnout public consultation where participants highlighted cost-of-living pressures.

The local authority held the urgent meeting to implement a temporary licensing change after iCars boss Neil McLennan was ordered to strip remembrance emblems from his fleet of taxis.

Somerset Council’s executive committee is expected to approve the new tariff structure today, 2 September, to help drivers cope with mounting fuel and insurance expenses.

Leon Gladdis, 29, of Newport, admitted to aggravated vehicle taking when he appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court last month, reversing an earlier not-guilty plea.

Under the proposals, several existing taxi stands on Church Street, Bridge Street, and Exchange Street will be removed and replaced with new locations across the town centre.

The new scheme, named Bolt Flex, allows passengers to use the existing app to book a vehicle and agree on a fare directly with the driver.

Conducted on the morning of August 12, the initiative focused on checking vehicles and drivers crossing local authority boundaries to ensure maximum passenger safety.