TAXI drivers in Darlington confirmed that they would be taking strike action last night, after councillors voted to introduce a new driving test for cabbies.

Members of Darlington Borough Council's cabinet agreed that all new drivers, and those who have driven a taxi for less than six months, should be subjected to the extended test before being granted a licence. Other drivers will have to take the revised test when they renew their licence - a move which has infuriated established drivers.

The council could face a legal challenge from taxi drivers, who believe the decision is unlawful under the Human Rights Act.

The Darlington Independent Taxi Traders' Organisation said it supported the introduction of the Driving Standards Agency test for new drivers, but not for experienced ones.

Chairman Mick Kennedy said: "There will be strike action following. I cannot understand why our council is hellbent on destroying the taxi trade in Darlington.

"Why set a precedent for taxis? We don't have bus drivers being forced to sit these tests.

"We will call a meeting and arrange for industrial action. That could be strike action or blockading the roads of Darlington."

Mr Kennedy said that legal action would also be taken to overturn the decision.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington council's cabinet member for transport, said the industrial action threat was disappointing.

"At the end of the day, the council places the safety of not only the passengers, but also the drivers, as a high priority," he said.

"I would be disappointed if strike action happened. What the council is trying to do is raise the standards of driving around the town in response to public concerns and concerns from other agencies as well. We do want to work with the trade, and that is what officers and members will be seeking to do."

New drivers and those who have been driving for less than six months will be subject to the tests from November. Others will have to face them from April next year.