Newcastle introduces new private hire signage policy

Newcastle-upon-Tyne private hire operators have welcomed a new policy which aims to make their vehicles more recognisable to passengers.

Private hire vehicles must now display rear passenger door signage with the name, number and/or app of the company the taxi driver works for. The intention is to help passengers identify the car they have booked and ensure drivers only respond to one job at a time.

Private hire operators across the city supported the new policy, which is now in place, following an eight-week consultation held last year.

The move is in response to concerns that some self-employed drivers, who were working for multiple operators, had abandoned jobs they had previously accepted after being offered a higher-paid fare from another firm.

The drivers then failed to turn up for the original bookings, it is claimed, leaving customers stranded and vulnerable.

Cllr Linda Hobson, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for housing and regulatory services, said: “The safety of everybody is of the utmost importance so these signs will help passengers further identify the private hire car they have booked and in turn ensure that drivers only respond to one booking at a time.” Ian Shanks, managing director of leading local operator Blueline Taxis (pictured), said: “We support Newcastle City Council’s positive approach to make private hire vehicles more recognisable and believe this will provide assurances that customers will be collected and transported to their destination safely.”

David Singh, customer care manager at Noda and Budget Taxis, said: “We unfortunately find ourselves competing with companies that operate high surge charges incentivising drivers to take alternative bookings and leaving our customers behind. The changes will make it safer for people and parents will have the comfort knowing their child is going to be picked up by a licensed driver and they will come home safe.”