Agenda item - Hackney Carriage Fare Tariff

Report of the Head of Planning and Public Protection (copy attached)

9.1       The Committee considered a report of the Head of Planning and Public Protection seeking agreement and authorisation to advertise the proposed fare increases following the hackney carriage trade’s request for an increase in fares.

9.2       Councillor Lepper asked what the rise would mean in terms of the increase payable for example on a fare of £10.00. It was explained that a £10.00 fare would now rise from £10.00 to £10.20.

9.3       Councillor Deane stated that she had attended meetings with the trade and that given the current pressures on the trade in consequence of the recession they have given careful thought to the level of increases proposed.

9.4       Councillor Robins asked for confirmation regarding the way in which the number of additional seconds was applied as this seemed somewhat arbitrary. It was explained that this was due to the way in which the metres inside vehicles were calibrated. These on board machines would be re-calibrated to take account of the fare increases if agreed.

9.5       Councillor C Theobald asked if it was possible to pay a fixed fee when hiring a vehicle. It was explained that this was possible for short journeys and that customers could negotiate this with individual drivers.

9.6       Councillor Gilbey stated that Boundary Road, Portslade was covered by taxis from Brighton & Hove and Adur Fares charged were cheaper with  Brighton &  Hove and had been for some a number of years. time.

9.7       RESOLVED – (1) That the Committee authorises the proposed fare increases and authorises the Head of Regulatory Services to advertise the proposed variation in fares and invite any objections in accordance with the legal requirements;

            (2) Agree that of no objections are made, or if any objections which are made are withdrawn, the varied table of fares will come into force in accordance with the statutory scheme; and

            (3) Will reconsider the matter at the next meeting of this Committee if valid objections are made but not withdrawn. As there are strict legal timescales relating to fare reviews a special meeting of the Committee may be required.