The decision by the council follows a survey, carried out by Local Transport Projects on behalf of the city council, found that between 2008 to 2013 the number of private hires across the city reduced from 2805 to 2638 but had risen to 3759 by 2018.

On Wednesday 17th April the council’s Licensing & Regulatory Committee approved the cap at an upper limit of 3759 and lower limit of 3383 for private hire cars.

The survey conducted found that that during week days only 60 percent of private hires were in use but 90 percent of cars were needed on Friday and Saturday nights.

At the same time the city council also capped the number of taxi licences of 1420 as an upper limit and a lower limit of 1278.

The cap has prompted fears of longer waiting times for passengers but, it has been reported, that on the whole the move has been supported by the trade.

Steven Grant, secretary of Glasgow Cab Section, said: “Members made the right decision today. This is what’s best for our trade and our city.

“It will help tackle air pollution and congestion in the city. The main concern is public safety and this will hopefully cut down pirating where private hires pick up off the street illegally.”

Dougie McPherson, Glasgow Taxis Ltd chairman, said: “Overall this is a positive step for the city in creating a more level playing field for providers and ensuring the customer continues to benefit from sufficient supply and choice.”