Posted on the 12th November 2024 in PHTM News

TAXI DRIVERS AT NOTTINGHAM STATION FEAR FOR FUTURE AS STATION STREET EXIT CLOSES

Nottingham's black cab drivers are facing an uncertain future after the closure of the Station Street exit to Nottingham Railway Station. They argue that the move is the "final nail in the coffin" for their industry.

The drivers' plight stems from a series of changes to the station's layout over the past decade.

The original taxi rank on Carrington Street was replaced by a pedestrianised entrance, and subsequent relocations to Station Street and Trent Street have further eroded their visibility and accessibility to passengers.

Chander Sood, secretary of the Nottingham Hackney Carriage Owners and Drivers Association, expressed deep concern about the impact of the closure of the Station Street exit.

"We're choking now," he said. "We used to wait 15 minutes for a job, and now it's around two hours.

"Is it worth it? How am I going to survive? We have more than 200 drivers with families to feed that rely on this trade. The council needs to wake up."

The drivers argue that while private hire companies can be booked in advance, black cabs rely on visibility and immediate availability.

The Trent Street move was not welcomed by the drivers, but they had no choice, said driver Mohammed Akram. Drivers say Nottingham City Council told them that the Station Street exit was where most passengers left the station and would thus see the taxis immediately.

For a decade they have operated from there, but say trade has slowly dwindled. On October 30, East Midlands Railway (EMR) closed the Station Street exit as part of a three-week trial to try and clamp down on fare dodgers entering the station that way and accessing the platforms without a ticket.

Mr Akram, a driver with 36 years of experience, emphasised the inconvenience caused to passengers, particularly those with disabilities or heavy luggage.

He said: "We've complained so many times over the years to licensing. We're losing a lot of business. When we were at the station entrance, people came into the foyer and we were there. Now, when they come out, they can't see us because we're hidden.

"They have to ask where the taxis are. There aren't any signs. We're losing about 40-50% of trade.

"All the drivers are very upset at the moment. If we can't come to a compromise we've got no choice but to protest and get legal advice."

The closure trial lasts until November 17, but the drivers fear that it may become permanent. 

Cllr Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council, acknowledged the concerns raised and pledged to meet with East Midlands Railway to discuss the situation.

He encouraged residents to provide feedback to EMR during the trial period.


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