Purpose

At the request of the Waste and Street Scene Committee, the Licensing Service is reviewing its policies in relation to private hire vehicle signage.

Decision

1. 1

The members of the Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee considered a report of the Executive Director Neighbourhood Services setting out the proposed amendments to the policy on Private Hire Vehicle Signage, as contained within the Private Hire Operator and Vehicle Licence Policy, and details of the consultation process that has been undertaken.

The report sought approval of the proposed amendments and for them to be implemented immediately.

1. 2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee approves the proposed amendments to the policy on Private Hire Vehicle Signage, as set out in Appendix G to this report, to be implemented immediately.

1. 3

Reasons for Decision

1. 3.1

The proposed amendments to the private hire vehicle signage policy

are designed to:

• Provide applicants and licence holders with a clear, consistent

policy regarding vehicle signage.

• Improve alignment with national best practice as outlined in the

Department for Transport’s guidance, while considering local

consultation.

• Provide members of the public with reassurance that Sheffield City

Council licensed private hire vehicles remain clearly and easily

identifiable.

1. 3.2

The proposals represent a proportionate response to the challenges identified through operational experience and public consultation. They support a more effective and efficient licensing system, upholding public safety, and reflecting current national guidance. By adopting these changes, the Council will ensure its policies remain fit for purpose, responsive to stakeholder needs, and capable of supporting a modern and inclusive private hire trade in Sheffield.

1. 4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

1. 4.1

Alternative Option 1:

Maintain the current private hire vehicle signage policy.

In doing so, it should be recognised that the private hire vehicle signage policy will not align with the recommendations of the DfT’s ‘Taxi and private hire vehicle licensing best practice guidance for licensing authorities in England’.

1. 4.2

Alternative Option 2:

Adopt the proposed amendments consulted upon, as set out in Appendix D.

This option removes the requirement for exterior private hire operator signage, in line with the DfT’s ‘Taxi and private hire vehicle licensing best practice guidance for licensing authorities in England’.

However, it is important to note that this option also mandates the use of permanent exterior Sheffield City Council door signage, which received considerable objection during the public consultation.