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Posted on the 6th March 2025 in PHTM News
WOLVERHAMPTON TAXI DRIVERS PROTEST RETRAINING RULES WHILE COUNCIL DEFENDS SAFETY MEASURES
Around 100 taxi drivers, both private hire and black cab, staged a protest at the University of Wolverhampton Science Park on Monday 3 March, opposing new council regulations that mandate retraining courses for drivers licensed before 2019.
The drivers object to the assessment process, which, if failed three times, could result in a year-long licence suspension.
Wolverhampton Council has responded, emphasising its commitment to passenger safety. "The City of Wolverhampton Council is committed to the safety and wellbeing of passengers who use taxi and private hire vehicles licensed by us.
"All customers should be reassured that drivers are up to date with a range of important topics," a council spokesperson stated.
Drivers have voiced concerns regarding lengthy wait times for test appointments as drivers are applying from all over the country.
They also deem the £50 assessment fee "unfair," though they are willing to participate in refresher training courses without a formal exam.
The council counters that the training covers vital areas: "Drivers who need to update their training are being asked to attend a one-day course, which covers areas such as disability awareness, county lines, child sexual exploitation awareness, face-to-face English assessments and customer safety."
The council defended the fee and the regulations, citing government recommendations for refresher training every three years.
"The Government has recommended that refresher training is carried out every three years. This course has undergone a full consultation with the trade and was approved by the council’s regulatory committee in July 2024," the spokesperson explained.
They also asserted that despite the £50 fee, "the council’s application fees remain low compared to other authorities."
Affected drivers are being notified of the training requirement during their licence renewal process.
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