Council chiefs have admitted they are ‘worried’ over the number of failed taxi vehicle tests in South Ayrshire.
Stark figures have shown an increase in the number of failed MOT and annual inspections for taxis.
Drivers have been warned they could have their licence suspended if a pattern of failures for a particular vehicle continues.
Councillors were all delivered the latest at the council’s last Regulatory Panel meeting.
It was revealed that of 32 taxi vehicle tests that took place between January 1 and March 31, 2023 there has been six fails (19 per cent).
That number has increased by four, with just two fails being recorded (6 per cent) during the same period last year.
Private hire fails continue to remain high with 29 per cent of vehicles tested failing between January 1 and March 31 this year. It means that of 32 private higher vehicles, 11 failed.
A spokesperson for South Ayrshire Council said: “There are currently a total of 99 taxi and 149 private hire licensed vehicles operating across South Ayrshire.
“Each taxi or private hire vehicles are required to undergo and annual inspection and an MOT. The stringent tests should be carried out every six months if the vehicle is over seven years old.
“Tests are used to determine that every vehicle is safe and roadworthy, as well as in an acceptable standard for passenger travel.”
Councillor Kenny Bell who heads up the council’s Regulatory Panel says safety will be the local authority’s “primary concern.”
Councillor Bell said: “This is a worrying trend, and one we would like to address.
“We’re reminding operators that they have a responsibility to check their vehicles regularly and to ensure they have robust inspection and maintenance plans in place.
“Passengers and other road users need to be confident that these vehicles are well maintained and roadworthy at all times.
“Where there is a pattern of failure for a particular vehicle, we do have the power to suspend a licence. This would always be a last resort, but safety must be our primary concern.”
Read next:
- Two Ayrshire seaside towns named worst in Scotland as top coastal destinations announced
- Huge holiday lodge plan decision expected as caravan park plots expansion
- Odeon Cinema to close in Ayr as company admits venue 'no longer viable'
- Adorable fox cubs living beneath hot tub for warmth spotted playing in garden
- Mysterious EuroMillions winner banks £1m and plots spending spree
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter
