MAYOR OF LONDON: “There are no plans to remove the existing turning circle requirement for taxis”
Updated: 2 days ago
The Mayor of London has defended the mandatory turning circle requirement for London’s black cabs following questions from London Assembly Member Alex Wilson.
Wilson asked why the turning circle is essential for taxis but not for Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs), despite both navigating the same narrow streets.
Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan highlighted the unique operational roles of licensed taxis. Black cabs can be hailed on the street or serve designated ranks, often needing to turn quickly when flagged down, even when travelling in the opposite direction.
Khan contrasted this with PHVs, which must be booked in advance through an operator. PHV drivers can plan their routes ahead, eliminating the need for such a manoeuvrability requirement.
The Mayor confirmed that there are no plans to remove the turning circle rule for London’s black cabs.
Sir Khan said: “London licensed taxis can ply for hire, which means they can be hailed on the street, where a passenger may flag down a taxi which is travelling in the opposite direction. Taxi drivers also serve taxi ranks across London and the turning circle allows taxis to quickly change direction should a passenger wish to travel in the opposite direction.
“The turning circle also plays an important role in ensuring passengers pay the lowest possible fare for their taxi journey. Taxi fares and tariffs are set through a taxi meter, and drivers, using their Knowledge of London skills, will use the best route to get passengers to their destination. The turning circle helps ensure they can quickly alter course to achieve this.
“Private hire vehicles (PHVs) provide a range of different services and vehicle types, all of which must be booked in advance with a licensed PHV operator, which means a driver can plan their journey in advance.
“There are no plans to remove the existing turning circle requirement for taxis.”
