Leeds taxi and private hire drivers will now be able to drive for two private hire operators, aligning Leeds with neighbouring authorities, as part of a new council pilot scheme.
The pilot follows concerns raised by Leeds taxi and private hire drivers that the current single operator model was creating an unjustifiable disparity in conditions with drivers licensed outside of Leeds, who are able to drive in Leeds for more than one operator. The change will provide a real boost to private hire drivers in Leeds during the cost-of-living crisis.
Running for up to 24 months the pilot will allow the council to test out changes to policy relating to dual operators, including:
- Allowing Leeds licensed drivers to work for two operators.
- Removing the requirement to have windscreen livery.
- Considering options for displaying stickers for both operators on the sides of vehicles.
Following the pilot and appropriate consultation a final decision will be made in relation to permanently amending the relevant driver, operator and vehicle conditions to allow taxi and private hire drivers licensed within Leeds to drive for dual operators.
Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for resources and Safer Leeds, Councillor Debra Coupar said:
“The dual operator pilot is a great opportunity for the council to test out a new approach and I hope the changes will give drivers licensed in Leeds a much-needed boost during the cost-of-living crisis. We will continue to work closely with the trade, operators and traveling public to ensure licensing policies and conditions strike the correct balance between ensuring public safety and quality of service whilst also proactively supporting taxi and private hire drivers in Leeds.“
