Decision details

The Chief Executive submitted a report asking Committee to determine whether there should be consultation on variation of the Council’s Licensing Policy in respect of Hackney Carriages, Private Hire vehicles, drivers and operators in respect of provision of wheelchair accessible vehicles and vehicles with ELAP seats.

It was noted that, at the annual taxi meeting, some Hackney Carriage proprietors had requested discontinuance of the requirement for ELAP seats.  Members were advised that the Council’s view thus far was that if an ELAP seat was to be withdrawn from a vehicle, it should be replaced with a fully wheelchair accessible vehicle.

The issue of disability awareness training for drivers was also highlighted and whether this should be extended to existing drivers and whether it should be renewed periodically.

Councillor O’Rourke outlined his concerns both with ELAP seats and back-loading wheelchair accessible vehicles and explained the difficulties that they can cause.  He expressed a preference for side opening wheelchair accessible vehicles.

RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:

Authorise the Head of Legal and Democratic Services to consult with the trade and with all interested or affected parties on any proposed amendment to the policy, and to report back to Committee.