The testing centre for black cabs, based in Deptford, was visited this week by Caroline Pidgeon AM .
The centre on Blackhorse Road, just off Evelyn Street, undertakes emissions and other tests on London hackney cabs. It is one of just three centres in London that undertakes the intensive tests that all black cabs must pass to remain in operation. There are other centres which provide the tests for private hire vehicles (mini cabs).
Caroline visited the centre in her role as Liberal Democrat London Assembly Transport Spokesperson, as she was keen to find out more about the how the emission and vehicle safety tests are carried out, especially following changes to the tests initiated by Boris Johnson. Commenting after the visit Caroline said:
"It was interesting to see the modern, computerised technology that is used to ensure black cabs are safe on our roads. The Mayor's decision to scrap the six-monthly safety test may well have met one of his manifesto commitments, but clearly additional officers to check cabs on the streets should have gone alongside this to ensure that black cabs continue to meet the safety standards all year round".