Shropshire taxi drivers' forums on new licence policy

Taxi drivers held a go slow protest in Shrewsbury on 28 January

Shropshire taxi drivers and operators have been invited to attend forums on a new licensing policy.

The policy sparked angry protests last month when drivers said the plans meant more drivers from anywhere in the county could operate in Shrewsbury.

Shropshire Council said it was trying to introduce a "safe, consistent and fair standard" across the county.

The three meetings will take place at 1030 GMT on 23 February in Shrewsbury, Oswestry and Ludlow.

A council spokesman said licensed drivers were being encouraged to attend their local forum to ensure they were kept up-to-date on any changes to the way the licensing service was delivered.

He added there would also be an opportunity for drivers to meet the council's licensing officers and raise any issues important to them.

On 28 January taxi drivers staged a go-slow protest in Shrewsbury over the proposed change in licensing laws.

Richard Price, from Shrewsbury Drivers Action Group, said it would mean an influx of drivers without local knowledge.

A council spokesman said a consultation about the plans was ongoing and no decision had been made.