CCTV to be installed inside Guildford taxis
The aim is to make passengers feel safer
Taxis in Guildford will be fitted with CCTV as part of a plan to make passengers feel safer.
The Borough Council has updated its licensing policy which it says will improve standards.
Additionally, all drivers will need to sign up to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to be checked every six months.
Ian Doyle, Director of Service Delivery said:
“This updated policy will help improve driving, vehicle and operator standards in our borough and will help make passengers feel safer.
"As a local authority we are responsible for ensuring safe travel through well-regulated services in our borough.
"We want to set standards which are among the highest in the country to ensure that all passengers feel safe when travelling in a taxi or other private hire vehicle.
"These measures will both protect the public and build public confidence in our services.“
There will also be stricter vehicle emissions standards to help reduce air pollution in our borough and improved maintenance standards to ensure vehicles are safer.
Ian Doyle adds:
“Taxis are one of the main methods of transport for those travelling to and from Guildford in the evening, especially at weekends, and we want to make sure that all passengers feel protected and safe.
"Guildford remains the only town in Surrey with a Purple Flag for the quality and safety of its nights out.
"We look forward to seeing our residents supporting our pubs, bars and restaurants again and enjoy returning to our stunning historic town as Coronavirus (Covid-19) restrictions ease.
"Please continue to be considerate to one another and make sure you use only Guildford licensed taxis and private hire cars.”