Major driving law changes could see taxi fares rise as motoring costs hammer drivers
New proposals could see the price of average taxi fares increase
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Transport for London is considering increasing the cost of fares for shorter taxi journeys and making the fares for longer taxi journeys higher.
The transport organisation is reviewing taxi fares and tariffs which could see customers spend more money when getting around the capital.
Under the new proposals, it would cost someone £7.20 for a one-mile journey made between Monday and Friday or at night, compared to £7 during the day on the weekend.
This would apply to shorter taxi journeys which are categorised under Tariffs 1, 2 and 3, with longer taxi journeys designated as Tariff 4.
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Tariff 4 journeys could also be made more expensive, which would apply to any journey, at any time of the day, any day of the week, which is longer than six miles.
The price of a Tariff 4 journey has not increased for four years, with these longer journeys having a cheaper rate than Tariffs 2 and 3.
Under the new proposals, Tariff 4 journeys would be made the same as Tariff 2, meaning the costs would increase during day times and weekends, but decrease at night.
TfL stated that it was considering the changes to cover their operating costs, ensure drivers are fairly paid and keep the industry attractive for people choosing their careers.
It added: “Taxis provide an important service, including for people who are less able to use public transport.
“They also provide an alternative to using a private car, which can contribute to improving congestion and air quality.
“When we review taxi fares and tariffs we try to strike an appropriate balance between drivers being fairly paid and taxi users getting fair and affordable fares.”
In recent years, taxi drivers’ operating costs have increased by 5.2 per cent given the overall price of motoring, like charging, fuel costs and car insurance rises.
Transport for London is also calling on motorists to give their opinions on whether a £2 charge to book taxis via phone, online or using an app should be increased.
Even those who often make the journey to Heathrow could see new measures introduced.
TfL is proposing reducing the additional charge motorists need to pay to use the "feeder park" at the UK's busiest airport from £3.60 to £2.
However, the £7.20 charge to use the feeder park will still remain, which is charged directly by Heathrow Airport.
Tennis fans are also being encouraged to leave their input about whether the Wimbledon Tennis Championships fixed fair scheme should be kept the same.
People are being asked whether the £2.50 fare should remain at the same price or be increased following reports of a lack of taxis at the tournament this summer.
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A final decision on any changes can be expected in April next year
PA
The consultation will remain open until November 20, 2023, with the the TfL Finance Committee informing of decisions by spring 2024 and any changes will be made in April 2024.
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