Taxi drivers and proprietors have made a request to the Isle of Wight Council, asking it to approve a proposed increase in tariffs — the first major overhaul of fares since 2014.
The fares set would be the maximum amount drivers could charge, so some companies could charge less.
Cabinet members will meet next Thursday (12th May) to consider the request.
Taxi drivers and proprietors asked for an increase in tariffs during a council consultation with the trade last November. Most charges have not risen in eight years.
The highest increases suggested by the trade would mean a two-mile journey (tariff 1 — 8am-10pm) would rise by £1.10, a five-mile journey by £2.30 and a ten-mile journey by £4.30.
The last review of Island taxi fares was back in May 2019 — pre-pandemic — and only made changes to one set of tariffs.
At Licensing Committee on 28 February, officers highlighted that any rise “…must ensure that the fares are proportionate and affordable, but still ensuring that taxi operators have a viable business so that this important service can be delivered.”
The council will not receive any funding from the proposed increase.
You can read the Cabinet paper here.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: pavel untilov under CC BY 2.0
