TAXI drivers in Rossendale are facing a police safety clampdown over the next few weeks -- but drivers are being given the opportunity to make vehicles safe before the checks start.
Similar operations over the past 18 months found that up to 80 per cent of taxis were unsafe.
As a result of the statistics Rossendale Council brought in new safety rules regarding the age of taxis on the road.
PC Rod Graham of the Pennine Division Road Policing Unit said: "Since we started these operations the standard and safety of the taxis has undoubtedly improved.
"However, it is some time since the last checks were made and we want to ensure that the taxis are still up to the required mark.
"These checks are done entirely for the safety of the travelling public, both those using the taxis themselves and other road users.
The agreement states all taxis must be less than five years at first registration and have a working life of seven years 364 days. All vehicles are subject to three taxi tests per year after three years which will be reviewed in 12 months time.
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