From payments to emissions – tell us what you think about proposed taxi policy updates

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are inviting residents, businesses and the taxi and private hire trade to share their views on proposed updates to their Joint Taxi Licensing Policy.  

This is your chance to influence how taxi services operate across both districts – from payment options to environmental targets. The councils aim to review this policy at least every five years to ensure it meets local needs and keeps up to date with legislation.

What’s Changing?

The councils are proposing updates including:

• Cashless convenience – all taxis and private hire vehicles to accept card and mobile payments.
• Cleaner, greener travel – moving the zero-emissions target from 2030 to 2045 – balancing environmental goals with affordability for drivers.
• Safety first – daily vehicle checks to keep passengers safe.
• Tinted windows – adjusting the rules to allow more flexibility while maintaining visibility.

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Taxis and private hire vehicles are a lifeline for many – whether it’s getting to work, school or safely home after a night out. By sharing your views, you can help us create a policy that works for passengers, drivers and the environment.”

Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities at Vale of White Horse District Council: “This consultation is about shaping services that work for everyone. We want a policy that balances convenience, safety and sustainability – and that means listening to the people who use and provide these services every day.”

Join the conversation

You can review the full policy and share your thoughts by visiting – southandvale.gov.uk/taxi-licensing-policy

The survey is open until Tuesday 10 March 2026.

Need the survey in an alternative format? Call 01235 422425 or email jointheconversation@southandvale.gov.uk

What happens next?

After the consultation closes, the officers will review all feedback and present a summary to the licensing committees before publishing the final policy.