Ensure you pre-book a licensed taxi this festive season
Last updated: 17/12/2025
Residents and visitors in Rushcliffe are being reminded to stay safe when travelling by taxi over the festive period by only using licensed vehicles.
Rushcliffe Borough Council is urging people to ensure they either pre-book a journey with a licensed private hire operator or use a licensed black Hackney cab when travelling around the Borough.
With Christmas and New Year fast approaching, demand for taxis is expected to increase significantly, so passengers are encouraged to book early wherever possible. Bookings can be taken over the phone, online and through a taxi company’s free booking app available to download on smartphones.
Using a licensed taxi cab by pre-booking your ride home or using a recognised taxi rank means the vehicle has met strict safety standards, the driver has been deemed a fit and proper person, and the vehicle is fully roadworthy and insured.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis joined licensed operators NG11 Cars, Yellow Cars, and DG Cars to discuss residents’ safety and how they can be assured they are using a licensed vehicle.
He said: “Thank you to the three Rushcliffe licensed drivers for their time helping to raise awareness of the importance of pre-booking your journey over the festive season.
“To ensure you get home safely after a night out, always book your journey in advance with a reputable, local licensed firm for collection at a prearranged time and location.
“If you haven’t booked your taxi then use a Rushcliffe Hackney cab which are black with Red Licence Plates on the front and rear of the vehicle and can be found at recognised taxi ranks in central West Bridgford.
"Never be tempted to get into a private hire vehicle without pre-booking it. Rogue, unlicensed drivers are known to impersonate private hire drivers, and the risks are very clear.
“Private hire licensed drivers can commit offences, including having no insurance, should they pick up passengers without a booking.
“Remember if it’s not booked or a licensed taxi, you’re in a stranger’s car.”
All licensed drivers carry a photographic identity badge, which must be worn at all times. Passengers are encouraged to ask to see this before getting into the vehicle.
Rushcliffe Hackney carriages are purpose-built to accommodate disabled passengers, and some private hire companies also operate accessible vehicles.
Visit RBC's website for a list of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and private hire companies who can provide a vehicle.