Plymouth Council to Decide on Uber and Smartzi Operating Licences

A determination is pending regarding whether Uber and another app-based private hire taxi company will be permitted to operate in a Devon city. Plymouth City Council announced that its Taxi Licensing Committee is scheduled to review applications from Uber and Smartzi on 21 November. Uber has submitted an application for a five-year licence within the city, proposing a fleet of 160 vehicles annually. Smartzi, conversely, applied in March for a five-year licence for a single vehicle per year. Councillor Sally Haydon, the cabinet member responsible for community safety, stated that the authority is “acutely aware” that granting a licence to either firm would have repercussions for existing trade. However, she also noted that such a development could potentially benefit clubs, bars, and other venues. Council officers have formally inquired whether the directors of Uber and Smartzi are deemed “fit and proper persons” to be awarded a Private Hire Vehicle Operator’s Licence by the committee. The council indicated that any final decision would be based on its established taxi licensing policy and whether the submitted applications satisfy its criteria. A report from the council further elaborated: “Officers recognise that if this application is granted it will potentially affect other private hire operators in the city – the committee is reminded that this is not a factor to be considered when deciding the application.” Ms Haydon observed that the council is cognizant of the difficulties residents have faced in getting home after nights out in the city in recent years. “Something has to change if our clubs, bars and venues are to survive in the long term,” Ms Haydon remarked. She added: “We are also acutely aware that a decision to grant a private hire licence to these companies could have consequences for our existing trade, but the committee has to take a decision based on very clear legal guidelines.” Readers can follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas may be sent to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.