Crackdown sees seven taxis taken off the road
Seven taxis were taken off the road after the latest round of surprise safety checks in Northampton, it emerged today.
Taxis at Northampton station
During the six-hour operation on September 14, 49 vehicles were stopped and inspected to check they were roadworthy and met public safety standards.
Seven were immediately removed from the road, 11 drivers were cautioned for breaching their taxi licensing conditions and a number of others were given advice and warnings about problems with their vehicle which needed attention.
The operation lasted until midnight and was carried out by Northampton Borough Council, Northamptonshire Police and VOSA.
More than 500 taxis and private hire vehicles are licensed in Northampton. Each must pass two scheduled safety checks during the year to make sure they meet the standards set by the council’s licensing laws.
As well as the scheduled checks, the council and its partners carry out regular spot checks.
Council leader David Mackintosh said: “Surprise checks like this are an effective way to remind drivers of the importance of good car maintenance. The safety of passengers is our priority. Any driver who flouts the conditions of their licence will risk being taken off the road. The spot checks will continue and we will take action against drivers who breach the rules.”
source: http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/ ... -1-4299930