TAXI TURNING CIRCLE DEBATE: TfL have ‘no current plans’ to scrap unique black cab feature says Mayor
Transport for London (TfL) have ‘no current plans’ to scrap unique features found on the London black taxi, said the Mayor of London.
The 25ft turning circle requirement for London taxis continues to generate debate, with some questioning whether it remains necessary in a modern city. Alex Wilson, a London Assembly Member, recently pressed the Mayor of London on the issue, highlighting that cities like Manchester and Liverpool do not enforce such a specification. So why does the capital persist?
Mayor Sadiq Khan defended the regulation, citing London’s uniquely complex road network. He said the city’s narrow streets and tight spaces demand vehicles capable of efficient manoeuvring. The turning circle enables black cabs to perform quick U-turns, allowing them to respond to passenger hails even when travelling in the opposite direction.
Transport for London (TfL) has in the past also pointed out the turning circle’s impact on passenger costs. By allowing swift directional changes, the feature reduces the risk of unnecessary detours, keeping fares as low as possible. Taxi drivers, equipped with their Knowledge of London expertise, rely on this ability to deliver efficient routes for passengers. Removing the requirement, TfL argues, could lead to longer journeys and higher fares.
The design of taxi ranks across London was another factor highlighted by the Mayor. Many of London’s ranks were created with the turning circle in mind. A removal of the requirement could necessitate costly redesigns or even the closure of some ranks, potentially further complicating operations for both drivers and passengers.
However, critics suggest that the requirement inflates the cost of new taxis, which must undergo significant adaptations to meet this and other licensing conditions. The Mayor has acknowledged this but maintains that the regulation is one of many factors influencing vehicle prices.
Alex Wilson, a London Assembly Member, asked the Mayor of London: “Members across several Groups have repeatedly asked the question. The turning circle requirement is not mandatory in major British cities such as Manchester and Liverpool. What is the specific basis for the London’s mandatory 25ft turning circle in London Taxis?”
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, responded: “London is unique. It has a complex road network with many tight spaces, narrow roads and streets. The London taxi’s turning circle means it can easily manoeuvre in this environment, can quickly change direction and easily pick up passengers even when they are on the opposite side of the road.
“Taxis provide a vital door-to-door service that many people rely on, in particular those with accessibility needs.
"My response to Mayor’s Question 2023/2742 explains why the turning circle remains integral to the overall design of the London taxi. In addition, a number of taxi ranks across London have been introduced with the turning circle in mind. Removing the turning circle requirement may require these ranks to be significantly changed or removed.
"The turning circle and the accessibility requirements are important aspects of the Conditions of Fitness for taxis and Transport for London has no plans to alter them."
