Age limit on taxis in South Tyneside to be discussed in bid to tackle climate change

A proposed change to licensing policy, which would mean vehicles entering the taxi trade could be no more than four years old, will be considered by the council’s cabinet next week.

They will be asked to give the go ahead to begin consultation about the introduction of an age restriction policy which would help cut emissions and promote a cleaner fleet.

The policy comes as part of a drive towards a regional emissions standard for taxis and private hire vehicles, which the 12 North East local authorities agreed should be pursued in 2018.

If adopted, the ‘Euro 6’ standard would apply from July 1, 2020 – meaning that any new vehicle wanting to enter the taxi trade could be no more than four years old and from July 1, 2023, existing vehicles could be a maximum of eight years old.

Fully electric and zero emission vehicles would be exempt.

Last year South Tyneside council declared a climate emergency and pledged to take all necessary steps to become carbon neutral by 2030, including producing a climate change strategy, supported by a five-year action plan, by March 31, 2020.

Coun Mark Walsh, lead member for housing and transport, said: “The introduction of these changes would help us move towards our goal of a carbon neutral future as well as having a significant impact on air quality and improving public health.

“Taxis are an important part of the transport mix in the borough and it’s important that we get the trade’s views on this. No decisions have been made and we’re keen for them to engage in the consultation and tell us what they think.

“This is about looking to the future and as a council, we are committed to creating a transport network that allows us to travel in a healthy, efficient and sustainable way.”

If given the go ahead, changes to the council’s existing tint policy, which specifies the minimum amount of light transmittance permitted through windows of taxis, will also be considered.