SWT consulting on new taxi fare cap proposal

22 July 2022 : Council news, Community, Public notices

Somerset West and Taunton (SWT) Council is seeking the public’s views in response to new requests to increase the maximum fares charged by local taxis.

Requests from the local taxi trade to reconsider the fare cap have been put to SWT on account of the rising cost in fuel. 

The maximum fares were increased as recently as February, but according to the RAC, the price of petrol has since risen by 26.5% with diesel up by 28.1%, giving rise to concerns that operating a taxi could cease to be viable for many, which would negatively impact members of the public who rely on hackney carriage services.

The public is now being consulted on proposals to reduce the initial £2.40 distance charge from 425 yards to 390 yards and similarly, the subsequent 20p distance charge from 145 yards to 135 yards. Note, neither the existing fare cap nor proposed changes apply to private hire vehicles.

Any members of the public wishing to object can have their say via the Council’s Taxi Fare Increase Proposal consultation webpage, which will remain open until 3 August 2022.

If objections are received, these will be considered by SWT’s Executive Councillors at their next meeting on 21 September to ensure any decisions made are balanced with the consequent effect on the travelling public.

If no objections are received, the proposed increases will automatically take effect from 4 August 2022.