The meeting of South Kesteven's Licensing Committee on 20 December 2024 will include proposed updates to the Council's Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy, which was last updated in May 2024. The reports pack also includes a letter concerning changes to the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy. Two reports included in the report pack relate to the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, which gives local councils the power to issue licences to businesses and individuals.

Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 & Town Police Clauses Act 1847

The Licensing Committee will be provided with an update following the implementation of the new Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy.

Since the implementation of the new policy on 23 May 2024, the council has received feedback on the new requirements for drivers:

• The costs associated with the new requirements could result in drivers registering in other areas. >The overall cost of both the new requirements and renewals could lead to drivers obtaining licenses elsewhere and result in competitive disadvantage. >Committee update re new Policy impacts - November 2024

The cost of applying for a licence has increased to £738. In comparison to other councils in the area, this is one of the highest fees. For example, in Newark and Sherwood, the cost of a new application is only £323. However, the report notes that many local authorities are planning to increase their fees or have not reviewed their fees since the new guidance was issued.

The requirement for drivers to pass an English language test has also been questioned.

*A question as to why someone who has lived in England all their life needs to demonstrate they have a qualification or undertake an English test. *Committee update re new Policy impacts - November 2024 This has been the subject of local media attention, when a driver objected to the requirement.

The committee will consider whether to recommend amending the policy to Full Council.

Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976

A report, ENV894, from the Licensing Officer will be included for discussion in the meeting. The subject of the report is not specified in the meeting documents.

Letter regarding changes to the South Kesteven District Council Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy

A letter addressed to the Licensing Committee regarding changes to the South Kesteven District Council Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy will be included for discussion. The content of the letter is not contained in the meeting documents.