Over 200 taxis checked in major NightSafe safety operations across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble

Tuesday, 16 June 2026 10:18

By Central Radio News

A total of 210 taxis have been stopped and inspected as part of large-scale safety operations across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble, bringing together police and partners to protect the public.

The coordinated operations, which took place over the last two weeks with the latest on Friday 12th June 2026, saw officers from Lancashire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit working alongside licensing officers from seven local authorities, including Preston City Council, Chorley and South Ribble Council, Wolverhampton Council, Sefton Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council and Sefton Council.

The initiative focused on identifying unlicensed drivers and ensuring that legitimate taxi services are operating safely, responsibly and in line with regulations.

The activity forms part of the ongoing NightSafe campaign, which aims to keep Lancashire’s night-time economy safe, welcoming and well-regulated for everyone.

High-visibility checkpoints were set up at key locations across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble. Officers carried out detailed inspections, checking for mechanical faults and safety requirements such as tyres, brakes, lights and seatbelts.

Results from the operation included:

210 licensed vehicles inspected
A number of traffic offences identified and dealt with, including illegal tyres and defected lights.
Two Section 23 Misuse of Drugs Act searches carried out on passengers

Sergeant Ben Elliott from the Roads Policing Unit said: "Our priority is making sure everyone can enjoy a night out in Preston, Chorley and South Ribble safely and that includes getting home without putting themselves at risk.

This operation is not just about enforcement, but also reassurance. By working closely with our partners, we are making sure that taxis are properly licensed, roadworthy and driven by people who meet the standards expected of them.

We want the public to feel confident that the vehicle they step into at the end of the night is safe and legitimate. As part of NightSafe, we will continue to carry out targeted operations like this to protect the public and uphold standards across the night-time economy.”