A MOVE to tighten licence conditions for taxi drivers in an attempt to increase public safety has been condemned as 'unnecessary' and 'unreasonable'.

Four private hire companies, the Hackney Carriage Association and dozens of drivers have objected to proposals by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council to introduce weekly written maintenance inspections.

Drivers of both types of vehicles would also be required to inform the council of a change of address within 14 days of moving.

A report by council officers outlines risks to public safety caused by problems with maintenance of hackney cabs and private hire cars.

They include serious defects found during joint police and council inspections and the large proportion failing the MOT test.

In a letter of objection Mohammed Khan, owner of A1 Minibuses and Goldenline Private Hire, said: "This is a rather drastic measure in response to a small minority of unprofessional drivers.

"This blanket policy will mean that proprietors already carrying out more than adequate routine checks to maintain their vehicles will be subjected to unnecessary additional burdens."

Michael Curic, owner of Mill Hill Private Hire, described the proposals as "harsh, absurd and unreasonable".

He added: "Private hire drivers and operators are very aware of the need for safe vehicles and many drivers use their vehicles for their families outside working hours."

Officers are recommending councillors approve the new conditions at the next meeting of the Public Protection Sub Committee next Wednesday.

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