Drive to change limousine rules

Local firms have backed the safety regulation call

Aberdeen councillors have backed proposals for the regulation of stretch limousines on safety grounds.

They have asked for a report on a scheme aimed at ensuring the limousines - popular for hen and stag nights or birthdays - are properly licensed.

Limousines can carry more than eight passengers but the council said there was no licence that allows this kind of use, so it could be considered illegal.

There are thought to be around 20 limousine-style vehicles in the area.

With the exception of funeral or wedding vehicles, limousines carrying eight or less passengers should be licensed as private hire cars.

There are some horrendous things that can happen with overcrowding John Cook Hollywood Cars

The outline proposals before members on Monday recommended establishing a new category of licence for specialised private cars and their drivers, recognising the unique nature of the trade.

Stretch limousines and other specified vehicles would carry white plates, but no meter, and would have to undergo detailed safety inspections.

The drivers would have to be considered a fit and proper person to hold a licence, but would not be required to pass the street knowledge test.

The report also called for detailed conditions about the consumption and storage of alcohol.

Members instructed officers to begin work on detailed proposals, with the aim of bringing forward a further report after the summer.

John Cook, who has run Westhill-based Hollywood Cars for about 14 years, said: "We are supporting this as we would like to see these regulations to make sure drivers and cars are appropriate.

"There are some horrendous things that can happen with overcrowding."