Changes to policy for taxis in Tonbridge and Malling comes into effect in December
Taxis operating in Tonbridge and Malling will have to take card payments and will be barred from refusing to take passengers on short journeys as part of a package of changes approved by councillors.
The updates to the borough’s private hire and hackney carriage policy will mean drivers refusing to take passengers or charging more than shown on the in-cab meter will be liable to receive penalty points on their taxi licence and a two-week suspension.
More than 80 responses to a consultation, including feedback from local taxi drivers, helped inform the new regulations. A recommendation to make CCTV mandatory in every taxi was deferred at a meeting for further research to be undertaken.
Des Keers, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: We thank everyone who took part in this consultation as the comments we received were very constructive.
‘The updated regulations are testament to our commitment to enhancing the taxi service in Tonbridge and Malling and will ensure our local taxi fleet delivers for residents and visitors.’
The changes to the policy come into effect on 1 December 2023.