Taxi standards in Rosendale are still good

Date published: 30 August 2010

The standard of taxis in Rossendale remains good according to the Licensing Manager at Rossendale Council who worked with Lancashire Police and VOSA to carry out a series of random checks on (Friday 20th Aug).

Thirteen taxis were checked to ensure they were safe and legal and only two were found to be defective and were suspended. One had a defective tyre and the second had damage to the anti roll bar and a leaking drive shaft.

A driver received a warning for having a defective roof sign, dirty seats, damage to a wheel arch, missing wheel trims and no fare card. A second driver will be reported for not using the fare meter.

The joint operation involved Lancashire police, Rossendale Council, the Vehicle Operation and Safety Agency, benefit fraud officials and the UK border police. Three local councillors also observed the operation – Cllr. David Stansfield, Cllr. Joyce Thorne and Cllr. Gladys Sandiford.

Licensing Manager Tracy Brzozowski said:

“Overall, the outcome of these random checks has been very satisfactory. The vast majority of the borough’s taxis are safe and legal and by carrying out spot checks like this we help to keep the standards high.

“The vast majority of drivers and operators take their responsibilities very seriously and make sure that their vehicles are maintained to the highest standards.

Cllr. Jimmy Eaton, Chair of the Council’s Licensing Committee, said: “I think that Rossendale has some of the best and safest taxis in the area. Spot checks mean that local people can be reassured that the standard of the Rossendale fleet is good. As a council our primary responsibility is to ensure that local taxis are safe and comply with relevant licensing.

“I want to thank the police and the council staff involved in this operation for the time and commitment they have given to helping people in Rossendale have peace of mind.