LONDON-STYLE 'knowledge' tests could be introduced to Blackburn taxi drivers after it was claimed many are unfamiliar with the most simple routes.

But drivers in Blackburn with Darwen today hit back, claiming it was the council's fault for continually changing the borough's roads.

At a meeting of Blackburn with Darwen's executive board, councillors approved a 2.5 per cent rise in taxi fees -- but demanded a knowledge test be introduced as well for black cab and private hire workers.

Currently, taxi drivers are obliged to take part in a course which looks at all aspects of being a cabbie, including health and safety, customer service and personal safety.

A brief assessment of a driver's local knowledge is also carried out. But several councillors demanded a separate test be introduced.

Coun Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration on Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "Recently, I have found that some drivers do not know the simplest journeys into the town centre.

"I think it is something which needs to be looked at. People need to know they are getting a good service. Even simple journeys I have requested from drivers seem a problem."

Coun Colin Rigby, leader of the Conservatives, said: "They never know how to find my house.

"I know I live in a rural location but if we are licensing them, then they should know the whole borough."

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member for consumer affairs said: "This is something I will look at, but to justify it I need to hear from taxi drivers to see if it is a big problem.

"A separate test is an option. Part of the current course looks at geographical knowledge but if it is a problem we can look at other ways."

Mohammed Nawaz-Khan, chairman of Blackburn with Darwen Private Hire Association, said: "We do not need a separate test, especially if it costs more money.

"Most new drivers learn the main routes within a few weeks of starting and have a control room operator to direct them if needed.

"The council keeps changing the roads in the town centre. One day a road is one way, the next it is two-way or prohibited. They should take responsibility."

Bury Council charges a £19 fee for its knowledge test and £164 for a private hire licence. Blackburn with Darwen will charge £144 from April 1, an increase of £4.

The executive board meets again next month to discuss the idea.