Issue - meetings

The Committee considered a report which advised the current Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) fleet profile and the potential air quality implications relating to the current policy. Members were asked to agree a consultation period on amending the policy so that new Hackney Carriage Licences would only be granted to electric WAVs with a two year fee free period.

Members were advised that the proposal to grant new Hackney Carriage Licences to electric vehicles only, would improve air quality and the availability of Hackney Carriage WAVS. The Head of Licensing explained that in order to incentivise the trade to purchase electric WAVs, there would be a two year period in which fees were waived.

The Head of Licensing explained to Members that under the current policy, only vehicles which meet the age criteria and are wheelchair accessible will be granted a Hackney Carriage Vehicle Licence. Members were advised that
there was further disparity within the Policy due to the types of vehicles allowed to be used until 12 years old. In the Hackney Carriage Fleet, WAVS are specified whereas the Private Hire Fleet has a broader definition. As a result, there are numerous Multi-Purpose Vehicle’s (MPV) on the Private Hire Fleet which are more polluting and do not offer the same benefit as a WAV.

Members expressed concern at the difference in definition and sought clarification that the proposed changes to the policy would rectify this issue. In response, the Head of Licensing advised that this area of the policy would be considered in the consultation with a report coming back before the Committee at a future meeting.

RESOLVED: (Unanimously)

1.    The Licensing Service will undertake a consultation with relevant stakeholders on the proposed changes to the policy.

2.    The Committee will receive a report on the outcome of the consultation at a future meeting.