ADVENTUROUS taxi passengers could be touring Exmoor beauty spots in an open-top motor tricycle if an application is approved by Somerset West and Taunton Council.

The authority’s private hire vehicles licensing committee has been asked by a small company to permit the use of a three-wheeled open-top Rewaco motor vehicle.

The applicants say they want to take paying passengers to Exmoor beauty spots, historical sites and small handicraft makers locally.

But licensing committee officer Brad Fear is advising members the motor trike is so different from a conventional car that normal local taxi policies would need amending.

Current legislation defines private hire as conventional cars with minor adaptations covering safety and use.

The Rewaco motor trike being applied for has controls similar to a car but handlebar steering.

As well as the driver it carries two rear passengers.

The committee officer said that because the motor tricycle does not conform to the council’s standard conditions, district councils may not grant such a licence unless satisfied the vehicle is suitable in type, size and design.

He added that motor trikes are well known and popular forms of transport worldwide and made to European standards with passenger seat belts.