TAXI drivers in Hyndburn are facing tougher restrictions after series of spot checks revealed a worryingly high number of defects in cabs.

Police carried out the random checks on taxis in the borough late last year and, as a result, a number of vehicles were taken off the road while they were repaired.

In the worse case, one driver lost his licence because his vehicle was dangerous and two others were suspended for eight weeks.

Council chiefs are determined to make the borough's taxi's and private hire cabs safer and are planning to introduce a get-tough policy.

The aim is to make driver's more aware of the dangers and one of the conditions on licenses is to make them responsible for obvious defects.

If the new rules are adopted, drivers of unsafe cabs will be suspended until the repairs are carried out and the vehicle tested every four months for the following year. Dangerous cars will also be taken off the road and Hyndburn Council will consider revoking licences.

Cabs which are found to be wholly unsuitable because of a lack of maintenance could be banned from the road altogether.

Drivers who are suspended or lose their licence will be able to appeal against the decision at the magistrates court. Councillors will vote on the new measures at licensing sub-committee tonight.

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