Taxi fares in Worcester are set to increase, despite concerns that higher prices could dampen customer demand and harm the industry.
The city council has approved the fare hikes for Hackney carriages at the request of the Worcester Taxi Association, which claims to represent over 200 drivers. The proposed changes include raising the initial hiring charge on standard journeys (Tariff 1) from £4.30 to £5, and from £5.50 to £6.40 for Tariff 2, which applies from midnight to 7 a.m., on Sundays, bank holidays, and other specified dates.
The new rates will undergo a statutory consultation, with the last fare adjustment occurring in 2022.
"Fuel prices have skyrocketed recently. But it isn't just fuel prices you've got to take into account," said Niall McMenamin, principal licensing officer. "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."
However, committee chairman Councillor Richard Udall expressed reservations about the potential impact on passengers, warning that higher fares might reduce demand and push customers toward 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. This will potentially be damaging to the industry."
The fare increase will apply only to Hackney carriages—taxis that can be hailed on the street or hired from a rank. Private hire vehicles, which must be pre-booked, are not affected.