Uber surrenders licence to operate in Southend

February 1, 2026

Southend-on-Sea City Council has issued the following statement after Uber informed the council it has chosen to surrender its Private Hire Operator Licence to operate in the city.

The Civic Centre at night with all the windows glowing orange. People are walking by.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "The council always encourages businesses to operate in Southend, and following a formal application from Uber, the Licensing Sub-Committee reached a lawful decision to grant a licence on 15 December 2025.

"Uber has since informed us that it has chosen to surrender its licence. Whilst we remain open to applications from potential private hire operators wishing to work in the city, we are clear that all operators are held to the same fair standards and safeguards – those who choose not to adhere to our conditions will not be operating in Southend."

Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said: "Credit is due to the Licensing Sub-Committee and council officers for their thorough and professional handling of this application.

"The committee followed the standard licensing process part of which involves adding conditions which take into consideration any evidence presented to them. There will be further opportunities for engagement as part of our upcoming review of taxi and private hire policy."