Uber granted licence to operate in Southend after unanimous Licensing Sub-Committee approval

December 16, 2025

Southend-on-Sea City Council’s independent, quasi-judicial Licensing Sub-Committee has unanimously approved Uber Britannia Limited’s application for a Private Hire Vehicle Operator’s Licence.

This means Uber is now able to operate in the city. The licence will be granted for a period of five years, after which Uber will need to reapply.

All Uber drivers licensed in Southend must meet the same standards as other local private hire drivers. This includes passing the Southend knowledge test, completing safeguarding training, undergoing enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, medical checks, and displaying Southend PHV door stickers.

Cllr Donna Richardson, Chair of the Licensing Sub-Committee, said: "I would like to thank everyone involved for their professionalism and commitment throughout this process. The committee has worked through all the details carefully, and I am pleased we’ve reached a decision in a courteous and respectful manner.”

Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, added: "This licence approval demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest safety and safeguarding standards for private hire services in Southend. Residents and visitors can have confidence that any Uber driver operating in the city meets the same rigorous checks and requirements as all other licensed operators."

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said: "I acknowledge the Licensing Sub-Committee’s decision, which allows Southend residents and visitors to benefit from a regulated Uber service. It is reassuring to see the process concluded thoroughly and professionally. I know this was especially important to business owners in the nightlife economy and I hope it supports the growth we all want to see."