Taxi Driver Online

Black cab fares to increase next month


Black cab fares in Hertsmere are set to rise next month, councillors unanimously agreed this week.

At a meeting of Hertsmere Borough Council's licensing committee, Paul Watkins, speaking on behalf of the taxi drivers, asked the council to increase rates for Hackney Carriages in the borough.

The last increase was in February 2007, but due to spiralling insurance premiums and petrol costs drivers say they are struggling with the current rates.

Mr Watkins said: "Some of us are using our savings to survive because things are really difficult at the moment. We could go of business. There has been between a 14 and 15 per cent increase in diesel. There is also a knock on effect in other areas with garages charging more for parts.

"I am glad we put our case forward and the councillors were all sympathetic to our cause."

The report compiled by council licensing officers said: "Hertsmere Borough Council is the licensing authority for Hackney Carriages and private hire vehicles working within the district. As such it is empowered to set the fares for the conveyance of passengers when it deems proper."

From February 2007, passengers were charged £2.20 for the first 321 metres of a journey with an additional 20p added every 165 metres. But councillors voted to adjust this so from August 1 this year, £2.20 will be charged for the first 299.6 metres with an increase of 20p every 149.8 metres.

In addition there will be a higher rate for journeys starting after 8pm. On average this means an increase of 18p per mile during the day and 69p per mile after 8pm.

Councillor Anita Gamble, vice chairman of the licensing committee, said: "I think all the councillors were on the side of the drivers. They all wanted to approve this new proposal.

"The increase in petrol was one of the reasons but also there aren't many Hackney Carriages in the area and bringing in a higher rate might encourage more drivers to take it up here. They are the safest taxis around and we wanted to support them."

Taxi fares will now be reviewed ever year.

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Kind regards,

Brummie Cabbie.

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