Taxi Driver Online

Matlock Mercury

August 2, 2006

HEADLINE: Taxi driver fined under new rules

By Richard Woolley.

JUST one taxi driver in Matlock has so far fallen foul of new fines for waiting in the bus station, Derbyshire Dales District Council has said.

And struggling drivers could be set for a boost with news that the council is employing two enforcement officers, who ensure taxis from elsewhere do not operate in the Dales. In recent weeks we reported how cab drivers in Matlock said £70 fines for waiting in the bus station would put them out of business, but bus drivers were keen to see the regulation enforced to clear the area of hire cars.

John Bailey, owner of JB Taxis in Matlock, said: "Drivers are still parking in the bus station and when they see a traffic warden come by they just pull off, wait for them to clear off and then come back. Customers have said to our drivers that they're disgusted at the way we are being treated."

He added: "But the enforcement officers should be a good thing for us. Everywhere else has them and it is about time some were appointed here. "They will keep an eye on what people are charging and see if they are over-charging, and challenge any drivers without Derbyshire Dales plates."

A spokeswoman for the district council said that since the no waiting signs were erected at the bus station, one excess charge has been issued along with "a number of cautions".

"The district council is working in partnership with Derbyshire Constabulary to ensure that vehicles operating as Hackney and private hire vehicles are safe for residents and the public to use," she said. "The Hackney carriage and private hire vehicle enforcement officers will be responsible for checking the vehicle fitness of Hackney and private hire vehicles.

"At present, these checks are carried out before a licence is issued but our newly trained officers will be authorised to check vehicles at any time to ensure they are roadworthy."
............................................................

"At present, these checks are carried out before a licence is issued but our newly trained officers will be authorised to check vehicles at any time to ensure they are roadworthy."




Well they better be trained to MOT standards or they wouldnt be checking my motor!

What a really henious crime, taxi drivers waiting for customers where customers want the services of taxi drivers.

_________________
IDFIMH