Torfaen Borough Council has been unable to find a garage to carry out taxi licensing tests, leading to an extension of an exemption policy first introduced in February.
The council’s previous contract with the only garage capable of issuing certificates of compliance expired, leaving them with no option but to accept standard MOT certificates for taxi licensing renewals.
Despite running a tender exercise, only two local garages responded, and neither was appointed. This means there are currently no garages in Torfaen able to conduct the required inspections to ensure vehicles meet licensing standards.
The council’s licensing committee has agreed to extend the exemption until their next meeting in November. However, they will continue to require standard MOT certificates for new or replacement vehicles and in cases where there are concerns about a vehicle’s suitability or if it has been involved in an accident.
The council is considering running another tender exercise in the new year and may explore the option of using its own garage or contracting with a garage outside of Torfaen.
While the interim arrangements have received positive feedback from drivers, the council remains concerned about the lack of interest from local garages. They have not received any specific reasons for the lack of participation in the tender process.
The licensing committee will discuss long-term solutions for taxi licensing testing at their next meeting. Councillor Steven Evans, chair of the committee, declared an interest as a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency inspector.
Source: South Wales Argus
