RESIDENTS, taxi drivers and private hire operators have only a few days left to share their views on proposed updates to Teignbridge Council’s taxi and private hire licensing policy.

The public consultation closes at midday on Friday, August 7, with the council urging anyone with an interest in the future of taxi and private hire services in the district to take part before the deadline.

The proposed changes are aimed at improving public safety, raising standards across the trade and supporting environmental sustainability.

The review is the first full overhaul of Teignbridge’s licensing framework in more than 15 years.

Although the existing policy has been updated over time to reflect changes in legislation, the new draft brings together national standards, legal requirements and local conditions into a single, clearer framework.

The council says the updated policy would strengthen enforcement, improve consistency and ensure passengers remain protected, while keeping requirements practical for drivers and operators.

Proposed changes include tougher checks on driver suitability, including knowledge assessments and language proficiency requirements, as well as mandatory training in safeguarding, disability awareness and recognising county lines exploitation.

The draft policy also sets out tighter standards for vehicles, emissions and record keeping, including daily vehicle checks by drivers and formal inspections every six months.

Other proposals include expectations that drivers should mainly operate within the Teignbridge area, new rules around in-vehicle CCTV and updated provisions for horse-drawn carriage services.

The consultation is open to taxi drivers, private hire operators, passengers, residents and other interested organisations. Feedback will be reviewed before the final policy is presented to full council later this year.

Anyone wishing to take part can view the draft policy and submit comments through the council’s website or by writing to the Licensing Team at Forde House, Newton Abbot.

The consultation closes at midday on Friday, August 7.