Taxi drivers receiving fines for controversial POP-UP rank in Worcester’s Foregate Street

Taxi drivers have been receiving fines this week for offences relating to a controversial ‘POP-UP’ rank situated on Worcester’s Foregate Street.

Cabbies on Foregate Street were recently shown on social media to be parking on double yellow lines, mounting kerbs and partially parked in bus stops.

The video captured by a cyclist caused controversy in the local area with discussions around rank alternatives and parking at the heart of the debate.

Since that debate began a local councillor has now confirmed that taxi drivers have been fined.

Cllr Richard Udall, Chairman of the Licensing and Environmental Health Committee at Worcester City Council, said: "I can confirm that a number of taxis received fixed penalties this week for offences on Foregate Street.

"Licensing officers have been taking action to enforce the rules."

Earlier this month Cllr Udall sent a message to all taxi drivers in the area. The message said: "This poor practice is not only a health and safety hazard, but it is also causing increased traffic flow and congestion problems in and around the city and is having a negative effect on driver reputation.

"Please note, the above activity is not acceptable under any circumstances and in response to the claims, officers will be undertaking increased enforcement activity in the area identified.

"Officers will also be working with other enforcement agencies to keep these areas clear from illegal and irresponsibly parked vehicles.

"If necessary both fixed penalty parking notices and penalty points issued under the Worcester City Hackney Carriage and Private Hire penalty point scheme, to any drivers who are found to be flouting the rules.

"If you have pre-booked passengers, please ensure that you make appropriate arrangements to pick them up from a safe and suitable location Whilst officers are mindful of the current day/early evening disruption being caused to the city taxi ranks as a result of highways improvement works, this is not an excuse for poor or illegal parking."