Uber apply for licence to operate in Aberdeen

Uber have confirmed it has applied for a licence to operate in Aberdeen.

Back in January, the global taxi firm confirmed it was 'in talks' with city officials about applying for a licence in the city.

Today, an Uber spokesperson said: “If granted, Uber’s application for a licence in Aberdeen will give passengers greater transport options around the city, support the local economy and provide new earning opportunities for drivers.”

Now that the licence application has been formally submitted, Aberdeen City Council will consider the matter.

The company - which already operates in Edinburgh and Glasgow - highlighted hundreds of Uber users have opened the app and attempted to book a taxi from the city centre but have been unable to do so.

Public have their say

The news emerged after an update from Our Union Street which encouraged people to make their views heard on the popular taxi service coming to the city by contacting Aberdeen City Council.

The window to submit objections or letters of support closes on Friday May 10.

The update said: "Uber have applied for a license to operate in Aberdeen. The window is open for anyone to submit objections or letters of support to the local council at licensing@aberdeencity.gov.uk - the window closes on Friday 10th May."

"I know when we asked for improvement suggestions last year that many of you suggested bringing Uber to Aberdeen would be a good move. If you support the idea - drop a note to the licensing committee, similarly, if you have grounds to object."

Hopes of fixing recruitment issues

Bob Keiller, chair of Our Union Street, said he has hopes Uber coming to Aberdeen could fix taxi recruitment issues.

He said: "I think that people are frustrated that there aren't enough taxis and if Uber coming to Aberdeen helps to stimulate more people to become taxi drivers, then that's a good thing."