Posted on the 2nd April 2025 in PHTM News

MANCHESTER CABBIES FACE CATASTROPHIC NEW YEAR'S EVE DEADLINE OVER EMISSIONS RULES

Manchester's black cab drivers are warning that "hundreds" of taxis could be "forced off" the roads at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, as new emissions rules loom.

The January 1, 2026, deadline for compliance with Greater Manchester's Clean Air Plan is triggering fears of a mass exodus, with drivers citing a lack of affordable vehicle upgrades and a crippling supply chain crisis.

The crux of the issue lies in the government's £8 million "clean taxi fund," far short of the £30 million initially requested by local leaders.

"They are expecting 1,350 vehicles to upgrade between now and December 31 [across Greater Manchester]," said Nayyer Ahmad, a Manchester hackney driver of 24 years. "It’s £95-£100,000 for a new cab. There’s very little available on the second-hand market. It physically cannot be done for 1,350 drivers."

Adding to the drivers' woes, the cost of compliant vehicles, both new and used, remains prohibitive.

"The electric cabs are horrendously expensive. That's about £100k when you factor in insurance. And there's no charging points," an anonymous cabbie of 14 years explained. "Traditional London taxis stopped being made in 2017. There's the minibus type, Mercedes Vito, but they come out of the factory as a van and they are converted by a company in the Midlands. There's a huge waiting list for them."

Drivers estimate that 766 of Manchester's 1,100 black cabs could become "obsolete" next year. Ahmad, 58, expressed his distress, stating: "The black cab is a national symbol."

He and other drivers are now pleading for authorities to extend the lifespan of their vehicles to the standard 15-year limit when cabs are usually barred from Manchester’s roads. "We are asking, let these vehicles run to 15 years," he said. "But to force everyone on one cut-off date will wipe everyone out."

In response, Manchester Council has indicated a willingness to consider extending the compliance date.

A spokesperson stated: "Officers are already preparing a report to recommend the relaxation of the compliance date and exemptions for licensees, to allow vehicle owners a longer period to switch to a vehicle that conforms to the new standards."

Transport for Greater Manchester has also announced "proposed measures" to support the taxi trade, set to be published on April 16, followed by a 12-week engagement period.

A spokesperson said: "The mayor and the city-region’s ten leaders want to not only improve taxi standards, but safeguard and support the livelihoods of Greater Manchester-licensed drivers."


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