TfL approve 8.92% London black taxi fare increase starting next month

The Transport for London (TfL) Finance Committee has APPROVED an 8.9% increase in taxi fares set to take effect this April.

Following a thorough review of taxi (black cab) fares and tariffs for 2023/24, the committee sanctioned a series of changes aimed at compensating cabbies for the rising operating costs faced by drivers, alongside an increase aligned with the national average earnings.

The approved changes introduce a 8.92% increase across Tariffs 1, 2, and 3. Additionally, Tariff 4 rates will now mirror those of Tariff 2. In a bid to streamline fares, the additional charge for trips to Heathrow has been reduced from £3.60 to £2.00, and fixed rates for shared taxi services to and from Wimbledon Station, as well as between Southfields Station and the All England Lawn Tennis Club during the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, will see an elevation.

Backing the 8.92% rise, the Taxi Now Group (TNG), alongside key taxi booking platforms such as Addison Lee, FREENOW, and Gett, have voiced their preference for this adjustment. This stance is echoed by the Taxi Trade Tariff Group (TTTG), representing the major taxi driver associations. They advocate for the 8.92% increase as a fair measure, citing the rejection of alternative proposals that would undermine driver earnings amidst escalating operating costs.

The tariff adjustments aim to bolster the taxi sector by promising a more sustainable income for drivers, potentially attracting new entrants and retaining current drivers. This could reverse the trend of a decreasing number of licensed taxi drivers and enhance the availability of taxi services across London. Moreover, by simplifying the tariff structure, the changes seek to offer a more straightforward and efficient experience for both drivers and passengers.

However, as with any rise in tariffs, these adjustments raise concerns over their impact on individuals with protected characteristics, such as those with disabilities or the elderly, who may find taxis less accessible due to increased fares. The risk of marginalising these groups highlights the complexity of balancing the need for fair driver compensation with maintaining taxi accessibility.

Additionally, higher fares, especially during late-night hours, could strain taxi users and Taxicard members, possibly resulting in longer wait times and decreased taxi availability.

Overall, the tariff increase aims to address the financial realities faced by taxi drivers and improve service availability for the user.