Cabbies ask for review to increase taxi fares in BCP Council area

TAXI passengers in Christchurch might have to pay more if a fare rise requested by cabbies in the BCP Council area goes ahead.

They have asked for the set tariff to be looked at again in the face of rising inflation, writes Trevor Bevins of the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

An 8% rise was agreed earlier this year but now the area’s Taxi and Private Hire Association is seeking a further 6% increase.

Councillors will consider the request at a special licensing committee hearing on Thursday 15th September.

David Lane, from the association, said that without the extra increase, many drivers face not being able to make a living and may have to stop driving.

In a letter to councillors the association said the continuing rise in all costs is having a devastating effect on driver.

It said: “The £0.506 (34%) increase in the price of each litre of diesel since 1st January effectively means a rise of approximately 12.5% in the total expenses for each driver over only a six-month period.

"This is without allowing for any increase in other items.

“We are conscious of the fact that everyone is facing difficulties with their finances due to the current rate of inflation, but at the present time our members are facing these increases and at the same time having their income reduced.”

The association claimed the additional 6% increase in fares, if approved, would only help drivers cover their increased costs and not result in additional profit.