Fenland 40% taxi fare hike put on hold for further discussions
Plans to raise taxi fares in Fenland have been put on ice as local councillors opted to delay their decision to allow further discussions with drivers.
Fenland District Council, based in Cambridgeshire, chose to defer a decision on the proposed fare increase, citing the need for more dialogue with those in the taxi trade.
The council’s cabinet was set to approve new tariffs agreed by the licensing committee in July. However, concerns raised by both a councillor with experience as a taxi driver and several members of the public prompted a pause in proceedings. Discussions took place at a council cabinet meeting on Monday, with the final decision now expected at a later date.
Samantha Hoy, a Conservative councillor and portfolio holder for licensing, has indicated her intent to continue talks with taxi drivers. Hoy stated that the taxi trade had requested an increase in maximum fares, which would apply solely to Hackney Carriages and not private hire vehicles.
A council report laid out the proposed changes: the cost for the first mile would rise by 5%, from £4 to £4.20. Beyond that, each additional mile would increase by 50%, jumping from £2.20 to £3.30.
Councillor David Patrick, an Independent who is also a working taxi driver, voiced strong opposition to the fare adjustments. He argued that the proposed rates were excessive and could negatively impact both drivers and passengers. Speaking to BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, Patrick warned that such increases could force some Hackney Carriage drivers out of work, stating that many residents simply would not be able to afford the higher fares.
Patrick emphasised that the rise could particularly affect those in rural areas, where bus services are infrequent. He highlighted the region’s high levels of deprivation, suggesting the new fare levels would deter people from using taxis as an essential means of travel.
Hoy, in contrast, disputed Patrick’s claims, suggesting his analysis did not accurately reflect the situation.
The outcome of these talks, and any potential fare changes, now hinges on further engagement with the taxi community, as the council seeks to balance affordability for passengers with the growing costs to run a taxi service.
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