Closed petition PE1960: Formally recognise private hire cars and taxis as modes of public transport

Background information

Private hire cars and taxis provide a valuable service to the public and play an important part in local transport. They are used by all social groups for a variety of transit needs. Unlike other forms of transport, such as buses, trams or trains, private hire cars and taxis provide an on-demand service from point-to-point rather than operating to fixed routes or timetables. Although private hire cars and taxis fulfil needs that cannot be met by fixed-service systems, they are often overlooked by planners and policymakers in comparison with other modes of transport. This has sometimes led to the private hire and taxi trade not being included in public transport stakeholder groups and a lack of meaningful engagement, and sometimes consultation, on decisions that affect the services they provide.