Issue - meetings

The Director of Neighbourhood Services submitted a report detailing the success of the Hertford Taxi Marshall scheme, in particular the review of the current Service Level Agreement (SLA).  Members were invited to consider any recommendations for the 2014–15 Service Level Agreement.

The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer provided background information regarding the Taxi Marshal Scheme and that the 2013–14 SLA excluded any nights other than Fridays or Saturdays.  He reminded Members of key dates in 2014, some of which fell midweek and the need to amend the SLA to secure the additional funding in the 2014–15 SLA. 

The Chairman stated that he had gone out on New Year’s Eve and was very surprised to find that there were no taxi marshals around and that the Police had been very concerned about the absence of taxi marshals.  It was noted that Hertfordshire County Council had confirmed that they would match fund 50% of the taxi marshal scheme, including any additional nights.

The Chairman stated that, in view of the agreed match funding, Hertford Town Council would only need to find £675 to fund the taxi marshal.  Councillor P Ruffles agreed with the need for the service, adding that he thought that the Hertford Town Clerk had agreed to fund the service.

The Chairman referred to the options the Council could pursue in funding the taxi marshal service.  He suggested that, initially, Hertford Town Council should be approached and that if this was unsuccessful, then a new Service Level Agreement should be re-drafted.  This was supported.

Members received the report.

RESOLVED – that (A) the report be received; and

(B)   Hertford Town Council be asked to fund additional shifts not covered within the current Service Level Agreement.