Taxi drivers will have to pass a new test before being allowed to work, Eastbourne Borough Council has ruled.

They will have to undergo an assessment by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) before receiving their licence to drive cabs.

Set at a higher standard than the normal driving test, the assessment will include manoeuvres designed to imitate real-life situations.

Successful drivers will receive a certificate of competence and a debriefing after the test.

Robin Cummins, DSA's chief driving examiner, said: "Driving a taxi carries a great responsibility and taxi drivers are the only hire and reward drivers who don't have to pass a statutory driving test.

"The Government is anxious to improve road safety and we are delighted the council has decided to introduce the new assessment."

The test will only apply to new drivers hoping to work in the town. Before the introduction of the DSA test, licensing officers at the council conducted their own tests for drivers.

Tuesday October 21, 2003