Licensing working to ensure safe taxi journeys this winter

Article date: 22 January 2026

The Licensing Team recently carried out a stop and check operation in St Helens Town Centre, led by council licensing officers and St Helens' local policing team. 

The aims of the operation were to ensure the safety of residents and visitors using taxis, to examine vehicle condition standards and check licenses - regardless of whether drivers were licensed in St Helens under the council's high bar of assessment, or elsewhere - and to take clear action against those that don't meet the requirements.  

Whilst the Council does not have powers to take action against non-compliant out-of-town vehicles and drivers, they can report them to their host authority and insist on a response. 

The operation supported the council's wider Safe Nights, Great Places campaign - launched in the summer - that unites local businesses, the council as the licensing authority and the police to promote a lively, inclusive and secure night-time economy in St Helens Borough. 

Under an expanded winter plan: 

• Licensed venues will continue to implement robust safety measures, including trained venue staff, taxi marshals, CCTV in taxis, and assistance points for vulnerable people. 

• The safety of women and girls remains a priority, with ongoing lighting improvements, safe-home taxi initiatives, and support services available across the town centre. 

Councillor Trisha Long, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said: 

"Everyone should be able to enjoy a night out knowing they can get home safely. By working closely with Merseyside Police and our licensed trade, we are taking a proactive approach to taxi safety - ensuring high standards are met and taking action where they are not. 

"These checks, alongside our Safe Nights, Great Places campaign, send a clear message that the safety of our residents and visitors - particularly women and girls - remains a top priority. We will continue to do everything we can to support a vibrant, welcoming and secure nighttime economy across St Helens Borough. 

"I also want to recognise the professionalism and support shown by our locally licensed taxi trade, who consistently work with us to maintain high standards and help people get where they're going safely." 

For more information about Safe Nights, Great Places, to plan your night out, or to find out how venues can get involved, please visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/safenights.