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Posted on the 14th January 2025 in PHTM News
GLASGOW CONSIDERS LIFTING CAP ON THE NUMBER OF TAXIS AND PRIVATE HIRE CARS
Glasgow City Council is set to debate whether to lift the cap on the number of taxis and private hire cars operating in the city.
Currently, there is an overprovision cap set at 1,420 for taxis and 3,450 for private hire cars.
There are 1,238 taxi licences and 3,450 private hire car licences operating in Glasgow.
However, recent reports suggest a shortage, particularly during late nights and weekends, impacting the city's nightlife. Business leaders argue that a lack of available cabs is deterring people from visiting the city centre at night.
Conversely, drivers' representatives claim that the problem lies in a lack of customers, making it difficult to earn a living.
On Wednesday 15 January, councillors will discuss a proposal to conduct a public consultation on the issue.
This consultation will explore whether the current caps are still necessary and whether they serve the public interest.
Given the reports and studies that have led to the call for a review, it is likely any change would seek to increase availability.
The consultation, if approved, will ask: “Whether the policies limiting the number of taxis and private hire cars in the city are still necessary and proportionate and whether they continue to be in the public interest.”
A report to councillors by Mairi Millar, director of legal and administration, states: “Since the policies were last reviewed, concerns have continued to be raised regarding the availability of taxi and private hire cars in the city.
“Recent reports commissioned by the council indicate that the late-night city centre economy continues to face a number of post-covid challenges.”
The challenges include: “A decline in footfall, with issues relating to a lack of late-night transport options including the availability of taxi and private hire cars acting as a deterrent to people coming into the city centre area later in the evening.”
The consultation will seek input from the public, the taxi and private hire trade and businesses involved in the city's nightlife.
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