Council puts cap on taxi licences
Chiefs say no need for extra drivers covering Paisley
No more taxi licences will be issued because Paisley town centre demand is being met, council chiefs insist.
Renfrewshire Council says there is no need for extra drivers covering the town.
They say there are no problems getting a lift at pub and club closing times – despite testing taking place on just two Friday nights.
Paisley First represents businesses in the area and insists too many are being stranded at pub and club closing times.
A spokesman said: “Paisley is a Purple Flag town which aims to promote a thriving evening and night-time economy, whilst making the town centre streets a safe environment for both locals and visitors alike.
“We are aware that there is an issue with a lack of taxis on the ranks throughout the town at peak times on weekend evenings.
“Paisley First would welcome the opportunity to work with Renfrewshire Council and the taxi companies to find a solution which encourages drivers to work at these peak times.
“This would support the town’s licensed trade and ensure a safe night out for all in Paisley.”
There are 235 licensed cab drivers working across Paisley.
Surveys were carried out at the taxi rank in Gilmour Street, in February and April.
Records of how many punters queued and how long they waited were taken.
But examiners waited just half an hour at 10.30pm and 12.30am.
They say 43 cars picked up waiting passengers, with some forced to wait five minutes.
Council officers also probed waiting times at Glasgow Airport.
G raeme McGo w a n , chairman of town centre business scheme Paisley First, says not enough drivers are on the road at the right times.
He said: “There seems to be enough licences granted.
“The problem is that not enough cover is being provided at peak times.
“Drivers are choosing not to work on weekend evenings and this is creating a problem for those leaving pubs, restaurants and clubs.”
Council chiefs set the limit for drivers two years ago.
They capped the number after commissioning an investigation by a transport consultancy firm.
Licensing chiefs insist levels of cover are “sufficient” after the increase from 214 two years ago.
They revealed the decision to maintain levels in a report to members.
It stated: “A licensing authority may refuse to grant taxi licences in order to limit the number of taxis in their area.
“In order to do so, the licensing authority must be satisfied that there is no significant demand for the services of taxis in their area which is unmet. The council currently has a policy of limiting the number of taxis within Renfrewshire and keeps the demand for taxis under review.”