An update from the council's Licensing Team for taxi licensees in Eastbourne about the number of hackney carriage plates.
In June 2005 the council was contacted by the Department for Transport regarding the current policy of restricting the number of hackney carriage licences in the Borough and our justification for such an approach.
Study of Hackney Carriage Services
In order to assess whether such an approach is appropriate, MCL Transport Consultants were commissioned to undertake a study of demand for hackney carriages. You can download the MCL report below.
In December 2006, following the outcome of the MCL survey, the Full Licensing Committee agreed to release a further six hackney carriage vehicle licences, subject to a series of terms and conditions.
The method of allocation was by way of a ballot, consisting of those who had expressed an interest via an advert. The Committee also agreed a revised approach to matters, including:
The creation of an annual expression of interest list, running in the first instance from 23 January 2007 – 22 January 2008.
The Committee, at this stage, has decided not to release any further plates. However, in line with the unmet demand survey undertaken in 2006 by MCL, this will be reviewed, normally every three years.
By formally registering an interest and by completing the relevant application form, individuals forming part of this list will be contacted if the Council decides to release further plates.
In addition, an advert will be placed in a local paper advising individuals of the Councils intention to release plates and the need to formally register interest.
Should the Licensing Committee agree to release further hackney carriage proprietor licences (plates) the details of those expressing an interest will be included in an in-house draw. Where an individual is selected and is able to comply with a range of terms and conditions (subject to review), the plate(s) will be allocated accordingly
