Mandatory CCTV for Craven Cabs

Craven taxi drivers will be required to install CCTV cameras and undergo tougher criminal record checks.

11:33 07 October 2021

Craven District Council has confirmed plans to require the installation of CCTV cameras in taxis and private hire cabs as well as subjecting drivers to tougher criminal record checks. The move is part of a bigger scheme that aims to improve passenger safety and address complaints against drivers, including "verbal and threatening behaviour" and "dangerous driving". 

 

The CCTV rules, which were set to be introduced earlier this year, were delayed following concerns over the financial impacts of the pandemic. 

 

A report to the licensing committee said: “The view is that taxi cameras can provide an additional deterrence to prevent risks to passengers and drivers and can add investigative value when required.

 

“The Department for Transport guidance does not state that taxi cameras should be mandated. The matter remains for the licensing authority to determine based on local circumstances.”

 

The council said the cameras cost between £450 and £630, and that this “has always been an important consideration”.

 

Drivers who cannot afford the CCTV equipment would be allowed to apply to the council for an exemption. 

 

Announcing the new standards earlier this year, former transport minister Nusrat Ghani said: “While the vast majority of drivers are safe and act responsibly, we have seen too many cases where taxi and minicab drivers have used their job to prey on vulnerable people, women and children.

 

“These rules would make sure that drivers are fit to carry passengers, keeping people safe while stopping those with bad intentions from getting behind the wheel of a taxi or minicab.”