Taxis in Craven to be fitted with CCTV
The cameras will be fitted from April
CCTV cameras will be fitted in taxis in the Craven district from April.
The fitting of cameras was supposed to start in April last year, but it was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The council hopes the move will make taxis safer and help to protect drivers.
Councillor Simon Myers, Licensing Committee chairman, said: “Introducing CCTV in all licensed vehicles will enable the prevention and detection of crime and promote a safer experience for both licensed drivers and the travelling public.
“Drivers of licensed vehicles are placed in a position of trust to carry vulnerable individuals, sometimes unaccompanied, and it’s important that all passengers feel as safe as possible.
“Drivers are also in vulnerable situations every day; they can be the victims of verbal and physical abuse, robberies and false allegations. CCTV cameras will protect them as well.
“We recognise that there have been concerns from some members of the taxi trade about the cost of purchasing the required systems - around £500. However, we have delayed this a number of times to give the trade time to budget for these cameras, which should also reduce their insurance payments. There are also Government loans available. If any taxi drivers are struggling to install the cameras by April, they should contact the Council and we will look into their case.”