Taxi crackdown sees dozens of out-of-town vehicles stopped in late-night checks
More than 40 taxis licensed outside Barnsley were stopped and checked during a joint late-night enforcement operation targeting the town centre’s night-time economy, councillors have been told.
Licensing officers inspected 55 drivers and vehicles during the operation on November 8, carried out alongside South Yorkshire Police and enforcement teams from Sheffield, Leeds, Kirklees and Wolverhampton.
The enforcement update was presented to the General Licensing Regulatory Board on 17 December, highlighting ongoing concerns about vehicle safety and compliance, particularly among taxis licensed by other authorities but operating in Barnsley.
Of the vehicles checked, 43 were licensed elsewhere, compared with 10 Barnsley-licensed vehicles. Five out-of-town vehicles were spoken to on the night and advised about vehicle defects, while two Barnsley drivers were issued with written warnings.
The warnings related to missing safety equipment, including the absence of first aid kits, fire extinguishers and interior licence plates.
Licensing officers said non-compliance, regardless of where a vehicle is licensed, is unacceptable and poses a potential risk to public safety.
The council confirmed that licensing authorities not represented during the operation have since been contacted, with most responding and confirming they would take action themselves.
Concerns about the number of out-of-area taxis working in Barnsley have been repeatedly raised by both Hackney Carriage and Private Hire associations through regular trade liaison meetings.
Officers told councillors that proactive enforcement would continue, stressing that drivers, operators and vehicle owners must take responsibility for meeting licence conditions at all times.
The report said enforcement action sends a clear message that safety standards must be upheld, particularly during busy late-night periods when passengers may be more vulnerable.
Councillors were asked to continue supporting enforcement teams and encourage the trade to maintain high standards, with public safety described as the overriding priority.