About the East Renfreshire Licensed Drivers Association
The East Renfrewshire Licensed Drivers Association (ERLDA) is an independent trade association representing taxi and private hire drivers licensed by East Renfrewshire Council.
The Association exists to protect drivers' livelihoods, promote the highest professional standards within the licensed trade, and ensure drivers have an effective and organised voice in discussions with regulators, industry stakeholders and public authorities.
Our Origins
ERLDA represents the continuation and legacy of the East Renfrewshire branch of the Scottish Private Hire Association (SPHA).
Following discussions between the leadership of the SPHA and local representatives, it was agreed that the East Renfrewshire branch would transition into an independent local association. This structure allows representation to be more directly focused on the needs, challenges and regulatory environment affecting drivers licensed by East Renfrewshire Council.
The formation of ERLDA therefore represents an evolution of the work previously carried out under the SPHA banner, ensuring that drivers in East Renfrewshire continue to receive strong, organised and professional representation.
Leadership and Representation
The leadership of ERLDA is formed by the trade representatives who previously represented the East Renfrewshire branch of the SPHA.
These representatives have a strong record of working on behalf of drivers and engaging constructively with local regulators and stakeholders. Their experience and commitment ensure that ERLDA continues to provide credible and effective representation for members.
Achievements for the Trade
The current leadership team has already played a key role in securing positive developments for drivers in East Renfrewshire.
Most notably, the team successfully campaigned for the abolition of vehicle age limits within the local licensing regime. This change represents a significant improvement for drivers, ensuring that licensing policy remains proportionate and reflective of modern vehicle standards.
Engagement with East Renfrewshire Council
ERLDA believes that constructive engagement between the trade and regulators is essential for maintaining a fair and effective licensing system.
To support this, representatives from the Association were instrumental in re-establishing the East Renfrewshire Hire Car Forum. This forum provides an important platform where trade representatives, council officers, Police Scotland and other stakeholders can meet to discuss matters affecting the licensed trade.
The forum now meets quarterly and provides a structured opportunity for dialogue, consultation and the exchange of information between the council and the trade.
Our Objectives
The East Renfrewshire Licensed Drivers Association exists to represent and support taxi and private hire drivers licensed by East Renfrewshire Council.
The Association works to:
• Represent the interests of drivers in discussions with East Renfrewshire Council and other regulatory bodies
• Protect members' livelihoods and ensure fair and proportionate licensing policies
• Provide representation and support to members facing licensing or enforcement matters
• Promote the highest standards of professionalism within the licensed trade
• Encourage constructive engagement between the licensed trade, regulators and industry stakeholders
• Ensure drivers have a clear and organised voice in matters affecting the trade at both local and national level
Through these objectives, ERLDA seeks to strengthen the licensed trade and support drivers in operating successful and sustainable businesses.
Structure & Governance
The East Renfrewshire Licensed Drivers Association operates as an independent, not-for-profit trade association governed by its Constitution and Rulebook.
The Association is led by an Executive Committee, supported by appointed trade representatives who work on behalf of members.
The Executive Committee is responsible for:
• Providing leadership and strategic direction for the Association
• Representing members in regulatory and industry discussions
• Supporting members in licensing and enforcement matters
• Ensuring the Association operates in accordance with its Constitution and governance framework
Trade representatives assist in engaging with regulators, attending trade meetings, supporting members and advancing matters affecting the licensed trade.
The Association operates transparently and in the collective interests of drivers licensed by East Renfrewshire Council.
Working With Stakeholders
ERLDA works constructively with a range of stakeholders, including:
• East Renfrewshire Council Licensing Authority
• Trade organisations and representative bodies
• Industry stakeholders
• Members of the licensed taxi and private hire trade
Through regular dialogue and structured engagement, the Association seeks to ensure that the interests of drivers are properly understood and represented.