HYNDBURN COUNCIL EXPLORES UBER LICENCE AND INDEPENDENT MOT STATION

Hyndburn Council is considering a significant shake-up of the borough's taxi and private hire sector.

The local authority is exploring the possibility of granting Uber a licence to operate in the area, and is also investigating the feasibility of setting up an independent MoT testing station for taxis and PHVs.

The moves were announced by council leader, Cllr Munsif Dad, at a cabinet meeting on 4 December.

The council's decision to engage with Uber comes amid growing concern about the number of vehicles licensed outside of Lancashire operating within the county.

Local taxi and private hire drivers have long been campaigning for an independent privately-run MoT testing station, citing dissatisfaction with the council's current facility.

In February 2023, drivers even threatened strike action, alleging unfair treatment at the council's MoT center.

Cllr Dad expressed the council's commitment to supporting the local taxi trade: "We recognise the importance of the taxi trade to our local economy and are committed to supporting it in any way we can.

"We have also invited Uber for discussions regarding applying for a licence in Hyndburn.

"We are taking this proactive measure as we want to ensure the best standards for taxis in our area, and to do that we want taxis to be licensed here."

A council spokesperson said after the meeting: "An independent MoT station would not be operated by the council, providing taxi drivers with an additional option for MoT testing their vehicle.

"Whilst this is at very early stages, it is something we have been asked to look into many times by our local licensed drivers."

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