Taxi checks ensuring public safety
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Wakefield Council and West Yorkshire Police has carried out a joint operation to ensure public safety and uphold taxi licensing standards across the district.
A total of 26 vehicles were inspected during the day of action (12 May) in Ossett and Stanley.
Five vehicles were suspended for serious breaches of licensing regulations, including not having a fire extinguisher and lights not working. And four drivers will receive formal warnings for failing to display their identification licence badges.
“These operations reflect our continued commitment to public safety and the enforcement of licensing standards.
“Passengers’ safety must always come first. Whilst we know that the vast majority of vehicles we licence are in good condition we are determined to ensure that the minority that aren’t are tackled.”
Cllr Daniel Wilton
Cabinet Member for Communities
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and legality of licensed vehicles operating in the district.
Joint partnership checks are now taking place on a weekly basis across the district. Taxis from all areas are subject to inspection by police and enforcement officers.
PC Simon Lovidge, from Wakefield North West NPT, said: “The operation held with partners was a success, and not only did we prosecute people committing offences, but we also educated vehicle users around the law and their responsibilities. This not only keeps road users safe, but also ensures people are operating businesses in accordance with the correct rules and regulations. We will be carrying out more operations in different areas of the Wakefield district in the coming months.”