Over 250 taxis inspected for safety in Lancashire operations
Action taken against traffic offences and unlicensed drivers in large-scale checks.
A large-scale safety initiative has seen 254 taxis inspected across Preston, Chorley, and Blackpool as part of efforts to protect the public and ensure compliance with taxi regulations.
The operations took place on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd October, involving officers from Lancashire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit and licensing officers from nine local authorities, including Preston, Blackburn with Darwen, Pendle, South Ribble, Chorley, Sefton, Blackpool, Wolverhampton, and Knowsley Councils.
The initiative focused on identifying unlicensed drivers and ensuring legitimate taxi services are operating safely and responsibly.
This activity forms part of the ongoing NightSafe campaign, which aims to keep Lancashire’s night-time economy safe and well-regulated.
High-visibility checkpoints were established at key locations across Preston and Chorley, where officers conducted detailed inspections for mechanical faults and other safety requirements on taxis.
In total, 26 traffic offences were identified, including illegal tyres and defective lights.
Additionally, two Section 23 Misuse of Drugs Act searches were conducted on taxi passengers.
Sergeant Ben Elliott from the Roads Policing Unit emphasised the importance of such operations for public safety, stating that the majority of taxi drivers are professional and committed to passenger safety.
Through targeted checks, authorities can address any offences and help maintain public confidence in the taxi trade.
Elliott praised the collaboration with local authority partners to enforce regulations while supporting compliant drivers and operators.