Zafira10 wrote:
Hi,
I have been a minicab driver in London for the last 16 years. The industry is now more competitive than ever, with a new minicab firm opening every week. It is very rare that I make as much I used to when I first joined the private hire industry. Part of the reason for this is traffic. It has got to ridiculous levels over the last 5 years. Myself and many other drivers have been lobbying for minicabs to have access to bus lanes, and with the help of the "big man" at Addisson Lee, our case is finally being heard. We are arranging a meeting at the Islington Town Hall in April (Date TBD), where Shadow Transport Minister, Maria Eagle will be in attendance. This will be an open forum discussion, where all opinions will be heard. I understand that this may affect the Black Cab industry to a certain extent, but I think now more than ever both industries need to just get along. There will always be enough work for black cab drivers simply because of the nature how you work, and also now thanks to halo many more jobs are coming your way. So, yes, lets move onwards and upwards, and share the bus lanes together!
Raz
I wish you well.
Access to bus lanes has been discussed on here since TDO day 1, with differing opinions from our London members.
I work in a city that allows all licensed vehicles from any area to use our bus lanes, which I think is the correct way forward.
What I would ask the politician, is how can it be fair that a licensed vehicle in London can't use the bus lanes there, but can use them in other areas?
However expect the Labour politician to be nobbled by the Unite and RMT unions.