Cheshire West and Chester Council’s licensing team would like to hear from residents who have used or use licensed taxis in the borough as part of a consultation on licensing policy.

It is the responsibility of Cheshire West and Chester Council to license taxis, private hire vehicles and drivers.

Licensed taxis (Hackney cabs) can be hired immediately from a rank or by hailing in the street, while private hire vehicles can only be booked through a licensed operator.

The council has recently launched a consultation into its licensing policy for Hackney cabs and private hire vehicles and would like anyone who uses or would like to use these vehicles in Cheshire West to share their views.

Level of service

Questions in the consultation include the level of service received and how easy it is to obtain the right vehicle, at the right time. The council is keen to hear from users or potential users who consider themselves disabled or who have particular vehicular needs.

Cllr Mark Henesy, Cabinet member for environment and community, said: “At this time of year, many of us will be using a taxi or private hire vehicle for the festive celebrations. Please take part in the consultation and let us know what you thought of the service you received.”

The formal consultation period runs until February 21, 2016.

The consultation is aimed at the public, as a separate consultation is being undertaken with owners, drivers and operators of hackney cabs or private hire vehicles.

The Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy consultation appears on the council website at www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/hackneyandprivatehirelicensing or can be found in the consultations, petitions and public questions section under the list of current consultations.

Other ways to take part include emailing Licensing@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or writing to Licensing Consultation, The Licensing Team, 4 Civic Way, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BE. Comments are also welcome on the telephone by calling 01244 972905.