Taxi Driver Online

This is probably more interesting as regards what it says about changing habits at ranks etc, as opposed to the end of the marshal thing per se.

A grain of truth in a lot of it, no doubt, but as per usual with official stuff like this it's a question of sorting the PR and BS from the reality of it all - maybe it's as much about funding, or whatever. (Although it's more usually PR and BS about a scheme's introduction as opposed to withdrawal...)

And it really just mentions the app-booking stuff in the passing, but that's the line that stood out for me.

And it doesn't specifically mention the U-word, but of course it could be about a shift to pre-booking more generally, as opposed to apps in particular, which is a trend evident long before Uber.

And, as regards the photo, not sure why they've blanked the number plates on both cars, but the plate number on the HC is clearly visible. And the driver clearly identifiable if you know him.

But looks like someone behind on the rank who shouldn't be, and with that annoying headlights-left-blazing thing


Taxi marshal scheme to conclude

https://www.darlington.gov.uk/news/taxi ... o-conclude

The taxi marshals scheme, introduced in September 2021 to support the town’s night-time economy (NTE), will come to an end next month. The final weekend of operation will be Friday 27 and Saturday 28 March.

https://www.darlington.gov.uk/media/wek ... -rank.webp

The scheme was originally established in response to a post Covid shortage of taxis and drivers, and an increase in demand as residents returned to pubs, bars, and restaurants following the easing of restrictions.

This imbalance led to long queues at taxi ranks, increasing the risk of disorder, queue jumping, and some taking the risk of seeking lifts from unlicensed drivers or strangers.

Taxi marshals were deployed at the Grange Road taxi rank to manage queues, support vulnerable people and help keep town centre customers safe.

Demand at taxi ranks has reduced significantly over the past few years due to changes in lifestyle and how residents are choosing to enjoy the night-time economy. More people are opting not to drink alcohol, so opt to drive themselves home, while a growing number come into town earlier for food and return home before the late-night peak.

In addition, the growth of private hire services that are booked in advance means more people are arranging transport directly from their location via phone or app. This has also contributed to shorter queues and less pressure on traditional taxi ranks.

Councillor Jim Garner, The council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “Darlington continues to be recognised as a safe and welcoming place for a night out, recently retaining its prestigious Purple Flag accreditation.

“External funding allowed the council to provide taxi marshals which, for several years, played a key role in supporting a safe night out. We are grateful for their efforts, but with the change in habits, less demand at taxi ranks alongside reduced funding we felt now was the time to bring the initiative to a close.

“However, there are other measures in place to support those in the town centre including Security Industry Authority (SIA) qualified door staff, police patrols and a ‘help button’ at the junction of Skinnergate and Houndgate, near Number One and The Hummingbird.

“We would also always encourage residents and visitors to plan ahead for a night out to ensure they can Get Home Safe.”

Inspector David Littlefair, Durham Police’s Darlington Neighbourhood Team, added: “Darlington Police will continue as normal to police the town centre on a night-time weekend.

“We have awareness of the situation with the taxi marshals to ensure people can safely return home after enjoying themselves in Darlington town centre.”

Practical tips and further information on staying safe while enjoying the town centre can be found at www.enjoydarlington.co.uk/stay-safe.