Purpose

To review the Taxi Table of Fares (Taxi Tariff) following a request from the Taxi trade to increase the fare tariff.

Decision

1. that, in accordance with Standing Order D11, the statutory requirements, the timetable for implementation and the practical arrangements necessary to introduce any revised tariff, it is considered that delay arising from the call-in process could prejudice the Council's ability to conclude the statutory process within the prescribed timeframe, it is therefore necessary for the decision to be implemented immediately.

Cabinet approved the statutory process to vary Hackney Carriage fares on 21 July 2026.  Following the conclusion of the call-in period, applied at that time, the proposals were advertised as required, two objections were received by the closing date.

Under Section 65 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, Cabinet must consider the objections before determining whether to implement a revised tariff.  Any new tariff must come into force by 4 November 2026.

Due to the timing of the consultation and Cabinet meeting cycle, 20 October 2026 is the earliest opportunity for the objections to be considered.  Given the statutory deadline and the time required to produce and install updated fare stickers in licensed vehicles, it is recommended that call-in be waived.

Delay arising from call-in could prevent implementation of the revised tariff within the required timescale, potentially prejudicing both the Council's ability to complete the statutory process and the public interest.

Accordingly, the Cabinet’s decision is deemed to be urgent.  Therefore, Cabinet determines that call-in shall be waived as any delay likely to be caused by the call-in process would prejudice the publics and the Council’s interest.  The Overview and Scrutiny Co-ordinator was consulted on 5 October 2026, who expressed concern regarding the extent to which the views of the Overview and Scrutiny Co-ordinator influence the outcome of requests for a waiver of call-in; and

1. that the Table of Fares (Hackney Carriage Tariff) as advertised, be approved and come into force on 4 November 2026.

Reasons for the decision

The revised tariff would support a sustainable and viable taxi trade, assist drivers in meeting increased operating costs and encourage continued investment in vehicles while maintaining a regulated and transparent fare structure.

Alternative options considered

Maintaining the existing tariff was rejected as rising vehicle, maintenance, insurance and fuel costs were no longer adequately reflected in the current fare structure and could negatively impact service availability.