Tourists must not be taken for a ride

Ataxi concern is charging massive amounts for short journeys around Dundee. Those with even a modicum of local knowledge will scoff at the idea of anyone booking a taxi between Dundee’s senior club’s football grounds, let alone paying £15.50 for the privilege.

But the expected influx of extra tourists from across the globe upon which the city’s immediate future depends, may not be so savvy.

Increasing numbers of travellers plan complete holidays on the internet, from booking meals and entertainment to excursions and travel.

A tourist from Japan or the USA is unlikely to realise until it is too late that a £20 charge for a taxi trip from the railway station to the Malmaison Hotel is outrageous.

A thriving tourist trade and the elements contained therein, including taxi firms, relies on engendering goodwill and five-star word-of-mouth reviews.

Reputations are hard to build but easy to destroy and the damage done by rogue operators seeking to make easy money from unwary visitors is incalculable.

Local taxi drivers are rightly outraged.

This is not the last firm which will seek to take advantage in this way as Dundee’s reputation grows.

The authorities must maintain vigilance against those whose lack of scruples could affect the region’s burgeoning reputation for excellence.