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Posted on the 7th March 2025 in PHTM News
EAST AYRSHIRE TAXI FARES SET FOR HIKE THIS SUMMER
East Ayrshire residents should brace for increased taxi fares, with proposed changes set to take effect this July, East Ayrshire Council has announced.
The move comes after a review of the current fare structure, which has been in place since May 2022.
The proposed alterations will see a notable rise in the starting fare. "The maximum amount a taxi will be able to charge for a journey of up to 1,320 yards (0.75 miles) will rise from £4 to £4.50," according to the council's documentation.
Further increases are planned for longer journeys, with each additional 125 yards incurring a 25p charge, up from the current 20p.
Surcharges will also be affected. Night-time hires between midnight and 6am will remain at £2, while festive period double fares will stay in place.
However, larger taxis will see a steeper surcharge: "Five, six, seven and eight-seater taxis will go up to £3 extra per passenger more than four people, when it was previously £2."
Waiting time charges will rise from £1.95 to £2.50 per five minutes. The £50 fouling charge will remain unchanged.
Maximum charges journey distances will apply as follows:
- 1.5 mile will be £7.25, up from £6.20
- Two miles will be £8.57, up from £7.60
- 2.5 miles will be £10.50, up from £9
- Three miles will be £12.25, up from £10.40
- Five miles will be £19, up from £16.
"Fares in excess of five miles will be the subject of special agreements," the council clarified, indicating potential for negotiated rates on longer trips.
The proposed changes are subject to further council procedures before final implementation.
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