School-run taxis could have rules on wheelchairs relaxed

Council's licensing committee will meet this week to consider a temporary change of rules for wheelchair-friendly taxis in a bid to boost availability and ease pressure on school transport.

- By RICHARD EVANS

The plans follow a consultation with around 300 hackney carriage taxi drivers and private hire vehicle licence holders, with mixed responses received.

Councillors will be asked to weigh up whether easing age limits on wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) could help keep more of the vital vehicles on the road for school contracts.

The council proposes that safety will be maintained by introducing stricter testing.