Taxi drivers in Medway could raise their prices
Taxis charges will start £1 higher to help drivers with the cost of living
Taxi drivers in Medway are asking to raise their prices - in order to help with the cost of living, and attract more people into the industry.
Councillors are set to consider plans to increase the flag rate, or starting price, of a cab from 3 pounds to 4.
There wouldn't be any other changes to rates.
The council’s licensing sub-committee has heard how the Medway Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (MLTDA) had decided to ask for an increase after a survey of their members.
Taxi drivers considered raising the yards travelled and waiting time tariffs but ultimately decided against this due to concerns it might make cabs uncompetitive.
"Attract drivers into the industry"
Nigel Jackson, chairman of the MLTDA, said:
"The requested increase would help drivers earn a sustainable income, would ease pressure on them, and make being a taxi driver a more attractive career.
“The £1 increase on the flag to some could seem quite substantial, but in relation to our costs, it will certainly help the trade to earn a sustainable living.
“With this we can attract drivers into the industry saying this is a good job to work in”.
The Towns’ tariff is currently the 172nd highest in terms of median taxi fare in the UK out of 344 local authorities – the increase would see it rise to around the 51st highest.
The last time taxi drivers received an increase in tariffs was in September 2022.
Sub-committee chair Cllr Dan McDonald (Lab) said it was important to work with licensed cab drivers as they ensured a safe, reliable service for residents.
Members approved the decision to recommend the report to cabinet for approval.