More time sought for Durham County Council taxi review

Taxi regulation is described as a "complex issue"

Durham County Council is to be asked for extra time to set a new policy on the regulation of taxis.

Currently rules differ across the area as the seven former district councils, replaced by a unitary authority in April 2009, regulated the industry.

A consultation is being carried out to unify this and the cabinet is being asked to grant additional time for it.

In the interim, some safety-related changes are to be implemented to bring all vehicles in line.

These cover areas such as additional driver checks, tinted windows, fire safety and first aid equipment.

'Sensitive issue'

The extra time will be requested at a meeting with the cabinet on 3 March.

Joanne Waller, the council's head of environment, health and consumer protection, said: "We are currently, and wish to continue, seeking the views of everyone involved in this important industry so that any changes made result in a quality service that residents and visitors can rely on, and that is fair for traders.

"We have very much hope to get full involvement from all areas and this is why we are asking for additional time.

"This is a complex and sensitive issue and we must consider all feedback and allow that to help shape our new policy."