Have your say on new unified taxi and private hire licensing fees

08 January 2026

Taxi and private hire drivers, operators and wider stakeholders are being invited to share their views on proposed changes to licensing fees, as West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) launches a public consultation on plans to introduce a single, unified fee structure for taxi and private hire licensing across the area.

The consultation launched today (Thursday 8 January), forms part of the Council’s ongoing work to create a fair, consistent and transparent system for all taxi operators in West Northants. It will run until the end of Thursday, 5 February with the opportunity to help shape the future approach.

Under national legislation, anyone wishing to drive or operate a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle in West Northants must hold the appropriate licence issued by the Council.  

Since the formation of WNC, the Council has been working to align the different taxi and private hire licensing processes previously used by the former district and borough councils of Daventry, Northampton and South Northamptonshire. The proposed licensing fees would bring these historic arrangements together into one clear, consistent structure for operators, drivers, and vehicles.  

“Taxi and private hire drivers, operators and residents all rely on a clear and well‑regulated licensing system, and these proposals are an important step in bringing our processes together across West Northants.

By introducing a single, consistent approach to the fees paid to obtain or renew a licence, the Council will create a fairer and more transparent system for the trade.

This consultation is an opportunity for anyone with an interest in local taxi and private hire services to share their views, and we encourage drivers, operators and residents alike to get involved.”

Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services

Subject to consultation feedback and approval by the Taxi and General Licensing Committee, the revised fees would replace the historic charges set by the former councils with a unified structure that would come into effect in the Council’s next financial year, which starts from 1 April 2026.