New regulation for Stirling taxis

Oct 2 2009 by Kaiya Marjoribanks, Stirling Observer Friday

TAXI firms and private hire companies across Stirling will soon need a licence to take bookings from the public.

But even then only if they operate through booking offices, including private homes.

Stirling Council’s regulatory functions panel this week agreed the new arrangement would be implemented from November 16. The licence will last for one year at £65 or three years for £150.

Under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 this new licence applies to any business which takes bookings at premises for more than three cars by any means, such as by phone or online to hire a cab. The new regulation is being introduced to address concerns that some booking offices could be used as a front for illegal activities.

The panel also agreed to attach local conditions to the licence, such as records for each hire being kept by the company.

The council’s licensing team consulted with the police and Clackmannanshire and Falkirk Councils’ licensing teams to produce the local conditions. Companies needing more information can contact the council licensing team on 01786 432294 or email: gibsons@stirling.gov.uk