Taxi passengers in Glasgow are facing a hefty fare hike as plans to increase prices by almost 10% have been given the green light.
The city council’s licensing committee approved the changes on Wednesday, which will come into effect on September 23 unless challenged.
The new charges will see a significant jump in the flag fall from £4 to £4.40.
Night-time rates, currently in place from 11pm to 6am, will be extended to 9pm, and the night-time charge will rise to £1.50 from £1.40.
The soiling charge will increase to £46 from £42.
Additional Christmas and New Year charges – between 9pm on December 24 and 6am on December 27 and 9pm on December 31 and 6am on January 3 – will rise from £2.50 to £2.70. These charges have previously only applied on December 25 and 26 and January 1 and 2.
The decision follows an independent report by Dr James Cooper, who found that the cost of running a taxi in Glasgow had risen by 9.72%. Factors such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance were cited as reasons for the increase.
While the council received 325 responses during a consultation, no formal objections were lodged. However, taxi firms have expressed concerns about the scale of the increases and the impact on passengers.
Glasgow Taxis has called for a more substantial night-time charge of £3, arguing that it would encourage more drivers to work during these hours. The company also believes the night-time rate should end at 5am instead of 6am.
The taxi industry has faced rising costs in recent years, including the introduction of the Low Emission Zone. The fare increases are aimed at helping drivers offset these expenses and maintain a viable business.
Anyone wishing to challenge the decision can lodge an appeal with the traffic commissioner for the Scottish traffic area.
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