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High Peak considering new driver tests
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Author:  JD [ Fri May 02, 2008 4:23 pm ]
Post subject:  High Peak considering new driver tests
Buxton Advertiser

May 1, 2008

New taxi ranks for Buxton?

DISCUSSIONS are to take place over the creation of new taxi ranks in Buxton - including at the town's railway station.

It follows recommendations made in a report by specialist company Kielder Newport West (KNW), concerning a survey into whether there was a significant unmet demand for taxis in the area.

The survey was commissioned by High Peak Borough Council at the request of the Department for Transport, because of the authority's policy on restricting the number of taxi licences awarded.

A meeting of the council's Executive last week heard the survey had concluded there was no evidence of unmet demand.

However, KNW went on to make recommendations regarding taxi ranks, fares and driver knowledge tests.

Cllr John Haken said: "We will look at new taxi ranks in Buxton and Glossop."

The council is to commence discussions with Derbyshire County Council regarding a possible taxi rank on Spring Gardens, and start negotiations with Network Rail over taxi rank space at Buxton railway station.

KNW also suggested a new rank should be opened outside The Spa Bar, from midnight onwards. Establishing a taxi rank at the Crescent was not considered viable by the council, due to its proposed redevelopment.

Cllr Haken said: "KNW and local councillors are keen to have a local knowledge test."

The test, for new taxi and private hire drivers, would consist of between 85 to 100 questions, followed by a 15 minute test drive in the borough.

Councillors also supported a recommendation that new drivers undertake a BTEC Award in Transporting Passengers by Taxi and Private Hire.

Added Cllr Caitlin Bisknell: "This BTEC award sounds to me to be an extremely new suggestion, and we should encourage all new drivers to do it. Would it be a good idea to recommend it to existing drivers when their licence comes up for renewal?"
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