Taxi access to Reading A33 bus lanes REJECTED amid possible future tram plans
A request to grant Reading’s taxi drivers access to the A33 bus lanes has been turned down amid concerns it could disrupt future transport projects. The A33 corridor, designed to potentially accommodate a light tram system, is a key component of Reading Borough Council’s transport strategy.
The proposal, backed by a petition with 231 signatures, was presented by Asif Rashid, chairman of the Reading Taxi Association. Hackney carriages are currently permitted to use other bus lanes in the area, but the council rejected this specific request, citing long-term plans and safety concerns.
Councillors argued that opening the lane to taxis could compromise the South Reading Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) scheme and hinder plans for a tram system.
The council’s highways team warned of potential safety issues, as taxis merging back into regular traffic could lead to collisions. Currently, buses are the sole motorised vehicles permitted in the lane, with dedicated cycle paths provided for cyclists.
Mr Rashid countered these concerns, highlighting the professionalism of Reading’s licensed taxi drivers, who adhere to high safety standards in other shared spaces. He emphasised the critical role taxis play in public transport, particularly for hospital patients and business commuters along the A33.
Supporters of the petition, including councillors and public transport advocates, suggested that tram implementation is still far off, arguing that taxi access could be revoked if trams were introduced. However, the council maintained its stance, pointing to a 24% reduction in bus journey times and a 62% increase in passenger numbers since the BRT lane’s introduction.
Councillors ultimately voted to reject the proposal, prioritising the A33’s strategic role in delivering reliable and sustainable public transport. With trams on the horizon, any changes to the bus lane policy remain firmly off the table.
