TRADE BOOST: Heathrow expansion and Lower Thames Crossing to BOOST taxi demand, says FREENOW
FREENOW, a leading mobility and black cab booking platform, believes growth driven by the Heathrow Airport expansion and the introduction of the Lower Thames Crossing will drive demand for black cabs.
Government backing for the expansion of Heathrow Airport is set to improve London’s global connectivity. The move is expected to strengthen links with key international business and tourism destinations, increasing passenger traffic into the capital.
Senior Policy Manager Sam Pooke said the surge in visitors would benefit both taxi drivers and passengers looking for efficient transport options.
The Government has also signalled support for the Lower Thames Crossing, a project aimed at easing congestion and increasing capacity in Greater London. With over 3,000 licensed black cab drivers in Essex and Kent, this investment could make travel smoother for both passengers and cabbies.
FREENOW has pledged to help drivers capitalise on these opportunities, ensuring a reliable transport service as these major infrastructure projects take shape.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed government support for the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport this week. This development is projected to create over 100,000 direct jobs and strengthen the UK’s links to key international markets. The expansion is expected to increase Heathrow’s annual passenger capacity by approximately 50%, potentially accommodating up to 140 million travellers.
The Government is also advancing plans for the Lower Thames Crossing, a proposed new road connecting Kent and Essex via a tunnel beneath the River Thames. This 14.3-mile route aims to nearly double road capacity over the river east of London, reducing congestion and providing motorists with more reliable journeys. The project is currently estimated to cost £9 billion, and the Government is exploring private finance options to fund it.
Sam Pooke, Senior Policy Manager at FREENOW, said: “The Government’s endorsement for the expansion of Heathrow Airport is poised to significantly enhance London’s connectivity, enabling further direct travel to key international business and tourism hubs.
"At FREENOW, we anticipate that the influx of visitors will boost demand for black cabs, benefitting both drivers and passengers looking for the most efficient connections to the
“With over 3,000 licensed black cab drivers residing in Essex and Kent, the Government’s support for the Lower Thames Crossing is also a welcome change in direction and will help boost capacity and alleviate congestion across Greater London. We are committed to supporting our drivers in seizing the opportunities that these expansions present as we ensure seamless and reliable transportation for all.”
