CCTV Plans for Blackburn with Darwen Cabs

Blackburn with Darwen Council's Licensing Committee may require taxis and private hire vehicles to install CCTV.

13:11 23 January 2021

Blackburn with Darwen Council's Licensing Committee will decide whethere they are going to require licensed taxis and private hire vehicles to install CCTV in their cars. They are also looking into introducing basic English proficiency tests for drivers. 

 

A report by Donna Riding, the council's principal licensing officer, says: "Government has acknowledged the potential risk to public safety when passengers travel in taxis and private hire vehicles.

 

"Its view is that CCTV can provide additional deterrence to prevent this and investigative value when it does.

 

"The use of CCTV can provide a safer environment for the benefit of taxi/private hire vehicle passengers and drivers by deterring and preventing the occurrence of crime; reducing the fear of crime; and assisting the police in investigating incidents of crime."

 

"All licensing authorities should consult to identify if there are local circumstances which indicate that the installation of CCTV in vehicles would have either a positive or an adverse net effect on the safety of taxi and private hire vehicle users, including children or vulnerable." 

 

The document adds that drivers must be able to speak basic English and understand written documents relating to the protection of children and vulnerable adults.