I hope this place is in Scotland
NO Need For More Taxis, Board Decide
http://www.inverclydenow.com/news-detail4.asp?ID=3608
INVERCLYDE has enough taxis, according to a report by experts.
The results of a six-week survey of taxi demand and provision were presented to Inverclyde Council’s General Purposes Board.
The study, carried out by the Fraser of Allander Institute at Strathclyde University, consulted with a wide range of groups and individuals including Inverclyde Council on Disability (ICOD), taxi operators and the general public.
The survey concludes that Inverclyde is well served by the taxi operators and that there is no evidence of unmet demand for taxis for disabled people.
Board chairman councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld said: “We realise that these results will be disappointing to some members of our community but, based on the results, the board has no justification for increasing the number of wheelchair access vehicle (WAV) licenses at this time.
“The board previously decided that such a survey was the fairest way of deciding whether or not any further licences for taxis, particularly wheelchair accessible taxis, were needed. We will observe the recommendations of this independent report at this time and periodically review the situation.”
The report makes a number of observations and recommendations.
-- Auditing and monitoring the service being provided by existing WAV licence holders
-- Ensuring that existing licence holders are conforming with the regulations under which the licences were issued
-- Working with taxi companies and operators to ensure that services for people with disabilities are operated at the optimum level
Councillor Ahlfeld added: “Wheelchair accessible vehicles can of course be operated under a private hire licence and the council does not limit the number of private hire licences. I am sure by working together we can ensure people with disabilities are well served in Inverclyde.”