Blackpool Council is to crack down on unsafe taxis after only one vehicle passed random tests. Of 41 taxis tested since June, 26 have been taken off the road and the owners of 14 have been given five days to bring their vehicles up to standard.
Police cars stopped Hackney cabs and private hire vehicles at random before sending them to a depot where safety checks are carried out.
The council said the random safety tests would continue.
'Robust campaign'
Among the defects found on taxis were faulty brakes and steering, exposed wiring, defective lights and faulty seatbelts.
Councillor Fred Jackson said: "The message is that anyone putting public safety at risk will be removed from the road and stopped from continuing their business until safety is ensured.
"This is one of the most robust campaigns occurring anywhere in the country and aims to drive standards up.
"Taxi operators are advised to take note that the council places a high regard on protecting the public and these ongoing operations will increase in the run-up to Christmas."
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