LICENSING chiefs are to have talks with disabled groups about whether to license a cheaper, rear-loading taxi.

Most hackney carriages are side-loading and a rear-loading taxi would need at least three metres at the back to allow people in wheelchairs to get in and out, even though rank spaces are at a premium in Worcester.

The rear-loading Peugeot Premier does not conform to existing rules which say new licences will only be granted to side-access taxis.

A taxi driver applied to Worcester City Council to license a Peugeot Premier on Wednesday, April 27, but concerns were raised at a licensing committee meeting.

Niall McMenamin, senior licensing practitioner, said: “Rear-loading vehicles require three metres to the rear. It’s a question for safety for members of the public and space required behind for other vehicles.”

He also said that, in the event of an accident, side-loading taxis had two doors, one at each side but for a rear-loading taxi there was only one way to get in or out of the vehicle.

Mark Kay, the licensing manager, said a consultation with disabled groups would prevent a legal challenge if the committee declines to license rear-loading taxis.

Mr Kay said he understood rear-loading vehicles were cheaper than side-loading.

Coun Stephen Hodgson said: “It’s difficult enough getting our taxis on the ranking space. When we have a licensing policy we should not go for the cheaper option just because people can buy cheaper vehicles.”

The committee agreed to start a 12-week consultation with both the taxi trade and disability groups.