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Posted on the 10th January 2025 in PHTM News
GLASGOW TAXI DRIVERS STRUGGLE TO MEET LEZ REQUIREMENTS AMIDST RETROFIT CHALLENGES
Glasgow taxi drivers are facing difficulties in meeting the city's Low Emission Zone (LEZ) standards, despite government support, according to Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy.
Duncan-Glancy raised concerns in the Scottish Parliament, highlighting the liquidation of Vehicle Repowering Solutions, a key provider of retrofitting services under the government's clean vehicle retrofit accreditation scheme.
This has left drivers with limited options to upgrade their vehicles to comply with the LEZ, which came into effect in June 2023.
"Taxi drivers in Glasgow are keen to play their part in the transition to net zero," Duncan-Glancy stated, "but at present they struggle to access some support to comply with the low-emission zone in the city."
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop acknowledged the issue, stating that £3.4 million has been allocated through the LEZ retrofit fund, enabling over 400 taxis to meet the emission standards.
She assured that alternative retrofit suppliers were offered to drivers impacted by the company's liquidation.
However, Duncan-Glancy insisted on a meeting with the Transport Secretary and taxi industry representatives to address the ongoing challenges.
Hyslop expressed willingness to investigate further and find a suitable resolution.
The discussion also touched upon the cap on taxi and private hire cars in Glasgow.
Conservative MSP Sue Webber raised concerns that further reductions could negatively impact the city's nightlife.
Hyslop emphasised that the cap is a matter for Glasgow City Council to address, given the city's unique situation with a higher proportion of older, non-compliant taxis.
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