Stretch limo safety tightened up

The popularity of stretch limousines has soared in recent years

The government is tightening controls on stretch limousines to make sure they meet safety and licensing standards.

The Department for Transport has published guidelines for operators to make sure their vehicles comply.

In June, the Department for Transport will introduce a tough new safety inspection regime.

There will be also pre-registration checks to make sure all new vehicles with more than eight passenger seats comply with the guidelines.

Extended limousines have become a popular feature of party nights out.

STRETCH LIMOS Numbers of stretch limos have tripled over past five years 15,000 on UK roads 4,000 carry more than eight revellers

But most of the vehicles come from the US, where different safety laws apply, and the Department for Transport admits some of the cars registered in the UK do not meet British standards.

The new guidelines will help limousine owners make sure their vehicles comply with regulations on weight, dimensions, turning circle, seating, brakes, tyres, doors, lamps and reflectors and glazing.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "The popularity of stretched limousines has soared in Britain and we are determined to ensure that they are used safely.

"We all know that limousines are great for parties, but it is important that these vehicles meet the required construction standards and are properly licensed and registered.

"This new guidance will help operators to ensure that their vehicles can lawfully be used on our roads.

"In the summer we will also be introducing a strict pre-registration check to help make sure unsafe stretched limos are kept off our roads."