Fareham taxi fares set to rise around 10% in bid to attract and retain drivers
Taxi fares in Fareham will increase by nearly 10% following approval by Fareham Borough Council on 13 January. The move is aimed at addressing a shortage of drivers and ensuring reliable transport services remain available, particularly for vulnerable and elderly residents.
Under the revised structure, the initial charge and the cost of the first 162 metres will increase from £3.00 to £3.20. Passengers will also pay 20p for every 153 metres travelled, slightly less than the current rate of 20p per 170 metres.
The Fareham Taxi and Private Hire Association requested the fare increase, citing the financial challenges faced by drivers and a drop in new licence applications. Many drivers have left the industry due to rising operational costs, prompting concerns over the sustainability of local services.
Additional adjustments include an increase in the charge for soiling a taxi, rising from £70 to £85. The changes will be implemented shortly.
Fareham currently has 115 licensed hackney carriage vehicles, with 93 drivers holding hackney carriage licences and 49 holding both hackney carriage and private hire licences. The fare revision is expected to improve driver retention and attract new entrants to the sector.
