Hundreds waiting for cab licence

More than 1,000 black cab drivers are waiting for licences in Manchester, the council has said.

The local authority restricts the number of new Hackney carriage licence plates it issues each year, based on a review into demand for the taxis.

The independent survey - carried out every three years - has led to a waiting list of drivers.

Manchester City Council is considering changing the system and has begun a public consultation.

'Simple and efficient'

City businesses, along with black cab and private hire drivers across Manchester, are also being asked for their opinions.

Councillor Richard Cowell, member for the environment, said: "We're carrying out this review to make sure the way we allocate taxi licence plates meets the needs of the city and is fair to everyone.

"We also need to make sure the system is easy to understand, is simple and efficient.

"We're asking as many people as possible for their views, and this includes Manchester residents as well as businesses and taxi drivers themselves."

The public consultation will last until 29 September.

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Hackney carriage consultation
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