COMMITTEE:
PUBLIC PROTECTION SUB
DATE:
15TH SEPTEMBER 2005
6. PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE A MINIMUM STANDARD OF DRESS CODE FOR HACKNEY
AND PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE DRIVERS PAPER‘D’
Matter for Consideration
To consider the introduction of a minimum standard of dress code throughout the Hackney and
Private Hire Vehicle drivers trade.
Information
Blackpool Council are investing heavily in regenerating the image of the resort. The Licensing
Service is keen to improve the image of the Hackney and Private Hire "taxi" drivers licensed by
the Council. Over the past several consecutive years there has been an annual fares increase
and Blackpool is currently the 35th highest charging local authority in the country out of a total of
378. The annual fares increases are linked to a "taxi quality improvement" to justify the
increases. This is the proposal to justify the 2005 increase. It is designed to outlaw offensive T
shirts and football tops which can inflame rival fans, and to maintain decency and promote a
positive image of the resorts "taxi " trade.
The proposals are considered to be modest, reasonable and affordable. Many of the Private
Hire companies already comply with smart, comfortable corporate uniforms.
There is a degree of opposition to the proposals from the independent Hackney trade.
Financial Considerations
Nil
Legal Considerations
The Head of Legal and Democratic Services will be represented to advise the Committee.
Personnel Considerations
Nil
Community Safety Considerations
The Councils policies relating to Private Hire vehicles and driver licensing are all part of an
integrated Public Protection service designed to provide a smart and professional "taxi "
service.
Relevant Officer
Head of Legal and Democratic Services
Background Papers
None
Recommendations
The Committee is requested to determine the proposal.