Document Taxi fare tariff increase

Before introducing this item, the Chair wished to place on record the Committee’s thanks to Mr Robert Smith, Senior Licensing Officer, who would shortly be retiring from the Council after 11 years.

The Committee’s approval was sought to increase the taxi fare tariffs, following a survey of the Trade which had been in favour of a review.

Members noted that fares had not been increased since June 2022 when there was an increase of 7.8% for the pull off rate, 11.1% for the second mile and 13.6% for subsequent miles.  There had been no increase in waiting time.

The survey had attracted a good response of 27 drivers out of the total 61 and Members noted the comments made alongside the survey replies.

The Committee was advised that a clear preference had emerged for a maximum charge of £5 for the first mile, £3.30 for the second and £2.80 for subsequent miles.  There was no proposal to increase the waiting time.

Members noted that Runnymede’s rates remained competitive and represented good value for money and it was agreed that the increase in fares was sensible in the current climate, taking into account inflation and the other costs facing drivers.

Officers would arrange for a public notice to be published, and subject to there being no objections received, the fares would come into effect from 8 April 2024

Resolved that -

the fare tariffs are increased in line with this report (Appendix ‘D’) to be effective from 8 April 2024. Subject to there being no objections to the proposed increases.