Bradford Metropolitan District Council is exploring the possibility of scrapping its traditional knowledge test for taxi and private hire drivers, raising questions about the continued relevance of this long-standing requirement in the age of GPS technology.
The council is currently reviewing its licensing regulations, with the potential elimination of the knowledge test – which assesses drivers' familiarity with local landmarks, routes, and areas – being a key consideration.
While some drivers, like Talib Hussain, argue that a strong understanding of Bradford's road network is crucial for providing efficient and reliable service, others, such as Taj Mohammed, believe the test has become outdated.
"You can't rely on GPS all the time," Mr Hussain said. "It can sometimes mislead you, and I believe my driving has significantly improved due to my in-depth knowledge of the city."
Conversely, Mr Mohammed, a veteran driver with nearly 50 years of experience, stated: "I think it's an unnecessary obstacle now. Even for newer drivers, I don't see any disadvantage. The more they utilise GPS, the better they'll learn the city through practical experience."
Nadeem Ahmed, chair of the Bradford Private Hire Operators' Association, echoes this sentiment, describing the current test as "a bit of an irrelevance" in the modern era of highly reliable GPS systems.
The council's review also encompasses potential modifications to livery and branding regulations, as well as a reassessment of the rules surrounding statutory declarations of previous criminal convictions.
Charlotte Shipley's reckless driving, which included running red lights, driving on the wrong side of the road, and mounting a pavement with a pedestrian nearby, culminated in a collision with a taxi.
Video footage shows Rowe driving erratically towards the group, beeping his horn as they scattered, before he exited his vehicle to shout at them.
The incident, which occurred near the Thornbury roundabout just before 6:30pm, caused significant traffic disruption, with tailbacks reportedly stretching to the Stanningley Bypass.
Currently, taxis in the Cumberland area still operate under licensing districts of the former Allerdale, Carlisle City and Copeland authorities, which means the rules and tariffs are different for each of them.
Monica Price, who is registered blind, had booked two taxis with Argyle Taxis in Birkenhead to take her to and from a meeting a few miles from her Wallasey home.
Mathew Warner punched the cabbie in the face after being driven home to Sprignall, Bretton, in the early hours of Sunday, January 26.
Good afternoon, I have received the below email from Uber who have confirmed they have arranged for geo-fencing in the attached area.
In January, ADCU submitted an earnings and security claim on behalf of its members to Uber and Bolt, demanding an immediate 10% earnings for all drivers, and a reduction in waiting time.
The motion, brought by Lib Dem Councillor David Whipp, failed to garner enough support at an extraordinary full council meeting.
Bradford Council has revealed ongoing discussions with Toyota that could bring hydrogen cell Mirai cars to the district.
Andy Sturrock, 47, a driver for City Cabs 450450, recounts a litany of assaults over his 12-year career, including being struck with a bottle, punched, spat upon, and having his vehicle vandalised.
The incident occurred around 11:50 pm on 5 January, on Holdenhurst Road.
The trial aims to establish a “permanent safe option” for increased taxi accessibility outside the station, according to Nottingham City Council.
A car crashed through the front of A1 Taxis' office in Station Yard, Hinckley, on Thursday morning, 30 January, causing substantial damage to the building.
The brutal attack occurred after Mr Ward, 55, (right) refused to give Greig a cigarette. Greig, 47, now faces a life sentence.
The incident, captured on CCTV, was viewed by members of Middlesbrough Council licensing committee, and showed the driver driving in a dangerous manner.
The incident occurred when the driver, Alexander Collins, failed to secure the wheelchair and then opened the door behind the passenger.
A former taxi driver who was twice arrested on suspicion of rape, including allegations of gang rape and kidnapping, has been deemed unfit to hold a taxi licence by a Stockton Council licensing committee.
Chelmsford City Council is facing opposition from local taxi drivers over plans to charge them between £500 to £1,500 for permits to operate at the new Beaulieu Park railway station.
"Worthing Borough Council Licensing Unit are contacting you as a matter of courtesy to make you aware that we have received an application from Uber Britannia Ltd and have recently issued a new operators lLicence to them