THE first new generation silver taxi has taken to the roads of Wyre Forest.

and the new taxi.

Bewdley Private Hire is running the London-style cab, which is wheelchair accessible, in line with new national requirements.

Wyre Forest District Council has deregulated the provision of Hackney carriages and introduced new operating conditions, which came into force at the beginning of October. All drivers applying for a new Hackney carriage licence should have vehicles which are no more than two years old.

They must also be purpose-built or factory-converted to enable wheelchair access.

Eventually, all Hackney carriages in the district will be silver and all private hire vehicles red.

Councillor James Dudley, the council's cabinet member for the environment and regeneration, said: "With these new conditions in place, taxi passengers in the Wyre Forest district will see gradual improvements in the quality, safety and accessibility of Hackney carriage vehicles.

"It will also mean that when travelling home late at night, residents can be reassured that taxis are easily recognisable."