Big majority of taxi drivers vote to stall fare increases
A proposal to keep taxi fares in West Lothian at their current level is set to go to public consultation.
The council is legally required to carry out a review of taxi fares every 18 months, after consultation with local taxi licence holders.
In its latest consultation the majority of the licence holders voted to keep fares as they are, with 32 local taxi licence holders voting 25-7 against a rise.
A report to the council’s Executive said: “The Taxi Owners Association (TOA) representatives stated that the consensus at the ranks was for no change and that a rise at this time would be detrimental to business due to competition to taxis from discounting schemes and fixed rates offered by private hire cars with lower running costs.
“They felt that the previous fare rise was significant and it was too soon for a further rise and they would seek a rise at the next statutory review in 18 months time.”
Neither the TOA nor the West Lothian Taxi and Private Hire Car Owners and Drivers Association sought any changes to the current fare table. However, members of a third group representing taxi drivers – The Fellowship – had suggested rises citing inflationary pressure on costs as the reason.
The council’s Executive backed a motion to advertise a proposed new fare table, with no changes to the current fares and charges.
The council is required to publish notice of any proposed changes and consider any representations in writing before agreeing a new fare table, which would take effect in May 2024.