Both of the articles in this post are from the Letter Section of The Sheffield Star

A Poor Welcome From Taxi Drivers

2 September 2008

How disappointing I find it that having passed through our lovely revamped station and glimpsed the beautiful approach, the first real impression of Sheffield that many get is being overcharged for a second rate black cab service.

As someone who regularly uses cabs in cities across the country, I consider Sheffield's to be among the worst.

Not only do the fares seem higher but the attitude of drivers is generally worse. I took two 10 minute taxi rides last week and on both occasions the driver conducted a telephone conversion throughout the entire journey - rude and arguably unsafe I would suggest. No greeting, no thank you and certainly no friendly conversation.

This is not the exception - it is the norm.

Not only does this provide a poor welcome to guests, it is a disservice to residents and regular users.

A high quality taxi service with drivers that display an interest in promoting the city can make an important contribution to Sheffield's economy, its competitiveness and its continued progression. It would also enhance quality of life issues for those of us who live and work here.

I trust that those of similar views will add to my voice in the hope of bringing about improvement. I would also hope to see a prompt removal of the surcharge once fuel charges reduce to previous levels.


Source; Sheffield Star

WHICH WAS FOLLOWED BY;

Concern Over Taxi Service Problem

20th September 2008

Responding to the letter entitled 'A poor welcome from taxi drivers' on September 2, I am sorry to hear of the poor experience suffered by this individual. I would urge them to contact me or the Private Hire and Taxi Licensing Office at Sheffield City Council, Legal and Adminstration, Town Hall, Pinstone Street, Sheffield S1 2HH.

We will be more than willing to discuss what happened and, if necessary, investigate further.

Sheffield City Council and the taxi trades are constantly striving to improve the service offered by private hire and hackney carriage drivers, the vast majority of whom are honest, hardworking and conscientious. Where there is evidence of a problem, we will act in accordance with statutory procedure and policies.

The writer also mentioned the issue of the fuel surcharge. This will be discussed at the next Licensing Policy meeting on 7th October. A mendments to the fare structure must then be advertised inviting public comment before implementation.

Coun Clive Skelton, Chair of the Licensing Board.


Source; Sheffield Star