Three taxi drivers refuse ‘short trip’ Cheltenham taxi rank fare, raising safeguarding concerns from council

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A recent incident has sparked concerns over the conduct of some taxi drivers in Cheltenham as three taxis REFUSED a ‘short trip’ leaving a young woman in tears.

According to a Cheltenham Borough Council’s ‘Trade Times’, the unfortunate situation occurred in the early hours of Saturday 22 June. A young woman was reportedly refused by three hackney carriage drivers at the Promenade rank.

This left her distressed and in tears. Eventually, she was able to get home safely using a private hire company that accepted her fare without hesitation.

This incident highlights a potential ongoing issue within the local taxi industry in Cheltenham. It raises questions about some licensed drivers prioritising higher fares over their duty to safely transport all passengers. The council licensing spokesperson emphasised the importance of safeguarding responsibilities, reminding drivers that refusing fares within the borough, without a valid reason, constitutes an offence.

The council has called for anyone with information about the drivers involved to come forward. They stress that such actions not only breach regulations but also damage the reputation of local services. The spokesperson expressed concern that incidents like this discourage residents from using the Promenade rank, potentially putting vulnerable individuals at greater risk.

A council spokesperson wrote in the Trade Times newsletter: “Remember your safeguarding duties. Refusing fares within the borough, without reasonable excuse, is an offence. If anyone can identify the offending individuals, please let us know. This is another customer who will not use the Promenade rank again.”