A taxi driver has said that the business is ‘struggling to survive’ in Bracknell.
Taxi drivers in Bracknell are facing tough times, with one stating that the business is ‘struggling to survive’.
Hackney carriages, known as black cabs, are regulated by Bracknell Forest Council. These cabs can be hailed on the street and are stationed at ranks like the one at the train station.
Manoj Lacximicant from the Bracknell Hackney Taxi Association highlighted the difficulties drivers are experiencing during a recent council meeting.
He emphasised, “We urgently need to find a practical solution and take action before it’s too late. Our trade cannot afford to stand still.” Currently, only 42 hackney drivers are active in Bracknell, a significant drop from 80-87 pre-pandemic.
Lacximicant noted that three drivers have already left to join Uber, not by choice, but due to financial pressures. "Drivers are working longer hours just to cover living costs," he said.
To help the situation, Lacximicant requested that the council increase the age limit for taxi vehicles from five to nine years and cap vehicle licensing fees for a year. He stressed, “Local drivers are being pushed to the edge. We need Bracknell council to act to protect local drivers and ensure a competitive taxi service.”
He pointed out that used cabs cost between £25,000 and £35,000, while new ones can hit up to £38,000. He also suggested that a mix of wheelchair accessible cabs and saloon cars could benefit the community, similar to West Berkshire's approach.
Councillor Nazar Zahuruddin raised concerns about introducing a mixed fleet, which would need public consultation. However, Councillor Nick Allen dismissed the idea, stating, “It’s not something we would consider.”
This discussion occurred during the licensing and safety committee meeting on October 23.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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