Basingstoke taxi fares set for potential increase as council reviews cabbies' operating costs
Taxi fares across Basingstoke and Deane are set to increase, as the council seeks to offset rising operating costs for local drivers.
The proposed changes, which are now open to public consultation, aim to bring greater clarity and standardisation to fares by introducing a new calculation model.
Currently, the fare structure is based on units of 1/12th of a mile—a system deemed confusing and impractical by Robert Draper, the council’s regulatory services manager.
Under the proposed changes, fares would instead be calculated in 1/10th mile increments, simplifying fare calculations for both drivers and passengers.
Under the revised scheme, the initial flag rate would rise slightly, from £4 to £4.20. Passengers would be charged £6.20 for the first mile and £24.20 for a ten-mile journey, marking a moderate uplift from the current rates of £6 and £22.20 respectively. Each additional mile would carry a rate increase of £2, reflecting what the council describes as “substantial” increases in operational expenses for drivers.
The Licensing Committee has approved the changes in principle, pending feedback from the public. Residents now have a 14-day window to share their views on the proposals.
Should there be no objections, the updated fare structure will move to the cabinet for final approval. Any objections raised during the consultation will see the proposals sent back to the committee for further review.
