Taxi fares set to increase in Worcester
Taxi fares are scheduled to increase across Worcester despite concerns that the price hike could reduce customer demand and negatively impact the industry.
The fare adjustments for Hackney carriage journeys have been approved by the city council following a request from the Worcester Taxi Association, which represents over 200 drivers.
The proposed changes include raising the initial hiring charge from £4.30 to £5 for standard journeys (Tariff 1) and from £5.50 to £6.40 for Tariff 2, which applies from midnight to 07:00, as well as on Sundays, bank holidays, and selected other dates.
These new rates will be subject to a statutory consultation process. The last fare increase was introduced in 2022.
Fuel price rises and other cost factors
Niall McMenamin, principal licensing officer, explained that the council is responsible for setting the maximum fares that Hackney carriages can charge within the city.
"Fuel prices have skyrocketed recently. But it isn't just fuel prices you've got to take into account," he said.
"It's vehicle running costs, licence fees have increased each year, and the cost of living just generally.
"This committee has to balance the Hackney carriage drivers – they need to make a living – with travelling members of the public."
Concerns over impact on passengers and industry
Committee chairman Councillor Richard Udall expressed concerns about the potential impact on passengers, warning that higher fares might reduce demand and encourage customers to seek cheaper alternatives.
"I've got serious concerns about the impact this will have on the taxi industry," he said.
"I don't think they can understand or appreciate the difficulties for the consumer, or the fact the consumer does have a choice," he added.
"This will potentially be damaging to the industry."
The fare increase will only apply to Hackney carriages, which are taxis that can be hailed on the street or hired from a rank. Private hire vehicles, which must be pre-booked, will not be affected.
This information was provided by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.
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