UNSAFE taxis and private hire vehicles in Redditch have been taken off the road following safety spot checks.

Licensing Officers from Worcestershire Regulatory Services found several vehicles that were deemed unsafe for carrying passengers safely.

The vehicles had their licences suspended by officers.

Three vehicles out of 24 inspected by officers and examiners were found to have defects which included worn tyres, leaking brakes, and fuel leaks. One vehicle was found to have a tyre which was worn to the extent the cord was exposed.

Redditch Borough Council’s Licensing Committee Chair Salman Akbar said: “While we recognise the majority of drivers maintain their vehicles correctly, we will not accept passengers being put at risk by the minority.

“This Council is proud of its excellent licensing policies and procedures which are there to protect residents and drivers alike.

“We want people who use a Redditch taxi or private hire vehicle to be confident their journey will be a safe one and WRS officers will continue to be vigilant and carry out these spot checks.”

Officers are now working with other drivers to raise awareness of how they can keep their vehicles in top condition.