Taxi Driver Online

Limos need a licence

They're usually the preserve of rock stars and presidents - but that doesn't mean everyone gets treated like a star and Wigan highways chiefs are now warning the borough's stretch limo owners to get them licensed.

In line with government guidelines, the council has introduced new regulations to put stretch limousines on a par with the rest of the private car hire trade when it comes to safety.

Limos with eight seats or less, and their owners and drivers, are now subject to stringent checks to make sure they are fit for the road and safe for their passengers.

The limos must pass two mechanical tests a year at the council's own MOT-approved testing station, while drivers must undergo a criminal records check and pass the council's "knowledge" test of the borough's roads.

Licensing committee chairman, Coun Brian Baldwin said: "Stretch limos are no longer the preserve of the rich and famous. "They're a regular feature on our roads with parties using them for weddings, prom nights and all kinds of special occasions – and that means it's important that we ensure the trade is properly regulated and the public can feel safe using them. "We're now working with local operators to bring these vehicles within the private hire licensing system."

Usually imported from the USA, stretch limos are often adapted to include features such as side-on seats, TVs and cocktail bars – even jacuzzis. Local authorities can only licence those with eight seats or less.

Maurice Dearden, licensing manager for Wigan Council, said: "These vehicles should be licenced and we are licensing them. "Because they are so long there can be problems with metal fatigue and we need to make sure they are safe."

Limos with more than eight seats are licenced by the traffic commission.

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IDFIMH

Now was that 1 or 2 out of how many?

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IDFIMH

Can't imagine the queue will be that long then.

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IDFIMH

Why?

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Grandad,

Because I believe many folks are driving un-licensed limos due to them not being deemed fit and proper to be able to drive licensed limos.

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IDFIMH

I belive the reason so many people are driving unlicensed limos is the fact they can. who is there stopping them. its as easy as that. they see them as a quick and easy way to make money and know no better.
if people could drive a london taxi and get away with it as easy they would.

I have to agree with you there No Tips, and you won't here me say that very often.

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Grandad,

Grandad I really believe 85% of limo people are really honest and are trying hard to comply, but the others are the lowest of the low. the self drive mob are far the worst.

Like I said, you won't hear me agree with you often.

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Grandad,

DITTO

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Legal and proud

Loads a love from BERTIE !!

I must live in the worst area for Limos, cos the 85% mark is far nearer to the iffy % than the good %.

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IDFIMH

Grandad & Kermit welcome to the land of sensible thinking