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Posted on the 19th December 2024 in PHTM News
BEDFORD COUNCIL APPROVES SIGNIFICANT RISE IN TAXI AND PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE LICENCE FEES
Despite expressing reluctance, Bedford Borough Council's General Licensing Committee has approved a significant increase in fees for taxi and private hire vehicle licences, effective March 2025.
The decision, made on 12 December, follows a four-year period without a fee adjustment. Licence fees for drivers and vehicles are set to increase by varying percentages, with some categories seeing a substantial 21.65% rise.
Councillor Leigh Coombs (Lib Dems, Shortstown) acknowledged the necessity of cost recovery but expressed concern about the impact on drivers and ultimately, residents. He emphasised the potential for these increased costs to be passed on to passengers, adding further burden to local residents.
Councillor Lucy Bywater (Green, Castle and Newnham) echoed Coombs' concerns, stating that while the increase was unavoidable, it would be "uncomfortable" for drivers. She strongly opposed the alternative of having council taxpayers shoulder the financial burden, deeming it "morally wrong."
The committee emphasised that the council cannot profit from these fees and is obligated to balance any surplus or deficit over a three-year period.
The approved fee increases include:
- 3-year driver licence (new): £427 (21.65% increase)
- 3-year driver licensce (renewal): £381 (8.54% increase)
- 3-year dual driver licence (new): £427 (12.69% increase)
- 3-year dual driver licence (renewal): £381 (0.7% increase)
- 1-year hackney carriage vehicle licence: £265 (3.92% increase)
- 1-year private hire vehicle licence: £265 (8.6% increase)
The General Licensing Sub Committee will now review any objections to the proposed fee increases.
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