Written question WQ99784

The Welsh Government recognises the important role accessible taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) play in removing barriers to independent travel for disabled people, including powered wheelchair users.

Taxi and PHV licensing is the responsibility of local authorities. To support greater consistency across Wales, the Welsh Government has published guidance for local authorities, including accessibility and equality training resources for drivers.

Disabled passengers can face barriers where taxi and PHV services are not designed, delivered or regulated in ways that are consistently accessible. Some powered wheelchairs also require vehicles with suitable space, access and securing arrangements. Wider equality legislation, including regulations on wheelchair-accessible taxis and PHVs, is reserved to the UK Government. The Law Commission is currently reviewing the legal framework for accessible transport in England and Wales.

Within devolved responsibilities, the Welsh Government is taking action through the Travel for All strategy to identify and remove barriers in transport policy, services and infrastructure, and to embed accessibility and inclusion from the outset. Travel for All User Research, commissioned in January 2026, is gathering evidence on the barriers people experience when using transport in Wales, including taxis, and will inform future policy development. A final report is expected in autumn 2026.