Hastings Borough Council Taxi Licensing Policy Amendment

Hastings Borough Council wants to know your views on proposed changes to our Taxi Licensing Policy.

These proposals are around the age of vehicles that can be used as taxis. We have a simple online questionnaire for any stakeholders to complete and have your say.

Background information

The council is seeking views on potential changes to vehicle age limits for licensed vehicles. These limits impact the availability, cost, safety and accessibility of the fleet, particularly for wheelchair accessible vehicles and larger multi-purpose vehicles. Feedback from licence holders, passengers, disability groups and other stakeholders will help ensure any future policy is evidence-based, proportionate and reflects local needs.

Advances in vehicle technology, including zero-emission vehicles, mean many vehicles now have longer operational lifespans and different maintenance requirements. While these vehicles often have higher upfront costs, they may remain safe and suitable for use for longer periods. The council is therefore exploring whether current age limits continue to support environmental goals, public safety and service quality.

The existing policy generally restricts vehicles to a maximum of ten years old. However, rising vehicle costs and the durability of purpose-built accessible vehicles mean many remain compliant, safe and economically viable beyond this limit. These vehicles play a vital role in providing accessible transport and supporting the local licensed trade. We are looking to extend these vehicles to 15 years for non electric and no restriction for fully electric vehicles, subject to extra vehicle safety checks at a garage nominated by the council.

The council is also considering whether fixed age limits may be too restrictive. For example, allowing the use of well-maintained, previously owned hybrid or electric vehicles could reduce emissions more effectively than requiring newer petrol or diesel vehicles, while also helping the trade transition to cleaner options more affordably.

Through this consultation, the council aims to understand the potential impacts of any changes and ensure future policy balances safety, accessibility, environmental priorities and the sustainability of the licensed trade.

Have your say

Complete our online survey to have your say. The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 26 July.