Uber confirms plans to launch in Torbay after council licence granted

Uber has confirmed it has been granted a licence to operate in Torbay and is now working on plans to officially launch the ride-hailing service in the area.

The update comes after screenshots from the Uber app appeared to show rides available locally, including journeys between Torquay and Paignton, with cars reportedly just minutes away.

An Uber spokesperson told the Torbay Weekly: “We are pleased to have been given a licence to operate by Torbay Council and we’re currently working on our plans to launch in the area.

“We see strong demand for Uber in Torbay and we’re excited about the opportunity to give people a safe, affordable and easy option to get where they need to go.”

The company said the move would also create new earning opportunities for local drivers, adding that drivers using the platform have access to “industry leading worker rights such as holiday pay and a pension”, as well as formal representation through the GMB Union.

Uber said drivers can also access free sickness and injury protection, parental payments and free Open University courses for themselves and their families.

The firm highlighted a range of safety features available to passengers, including GPS tracking, the ability to share live trip details, an in-app emergency assistance button and RideCheck technology, which can detect unexpected long stops or possible crashes. All drivers must undergo relevant DBS checks to be licensed.

Uber added that it operates in line with the same regulations as other private hire operators.