MORE OR LESS CABS NEEDED? Public consultation launched on Glasgow’s taxi and private hire car numbers
A review of Glasgow’s taxi and private hire car numbers is now open for public input. The consultation, launched by Glasgow City Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee, will assess whether current levels meet the city’s needs.
The review follows concerns over the availability of taxis and private hire cars, particularly at night. Research suggests that difficulties in securing transport late at night deter people from visiting the city centre.
Current rules set limits on when overprovision is deemed to occur. For taxis, the threshold is 1,420 vehicles, while for private hire cars, it stands at 3,450. The latest figures show 1,227 taxis and 3,450 private hire cars operating in the city.
To guide future policy, a survey has been issued to key stakeholders, including representatives from the taxi and private hire sector, business groups, the night-time economy, emergency services, and community councils. The public can also take part via the council’s consultation hub at www.glasgow.gov.uk/consultations.
Councillor Alex Wilson, Chair of the Licensing and Regulatory Committee, is encouraging anyone with an interest in Glasgow’s taxi and private hire system to share their views.
The consultation remains open until 28 May 2025.
Councillor Wilson said: "Glasgow's taxis and private hire cars are a key part of the city's transport system and are vital for getting people safely to and from the city centre at night.
"But the trade has faced huge challenges such as the covid pandemic and the growth of phone-app technology. People's leisure habits have also changed significantly in recent years.
"Given the shifting landscape, it is right that the licensing committee reflects on whether our policies still proportionate and necessary. Gathering the widest possible range of views will help us ensure our policies strike the right balance for both operators and passengers.
"Anyone who has ever been in a taxi or private hire car in Glasgow has a stake in this policy review and I appeal to all to contribute to our survey."
