The first changes to licenced taxi fares in Folkestone & Hythe for a decade have been agreed by councillors.
During a public consultation on the council’s proposals, the taxi trade put forward their own recommendation.
It reflected a similar fare increase of approximately 10% but included changes which they felt would be easier to implement and also reflected predicted inflation rate rises.
The planning and licensing committee reviewed the feedback and accepted the ideas at a meeting last Tuesday (20 September). It is the first time the fares have been amended since 2012.
Cllr Stuart Peall – Cabinet Member for Enforcement, Regulatory Services, Waste and Building Control – said: “The changes will ensure licenced vehicles continue to be safe, comfortable and insured – and driven by professional and competent drivers.”
The agreed changes will come into effect as soon as drivers have their meters updated.
Leader Cllr David Monk added: “The process of setting a fare increase is complex and a balance has been struck between the legitimate aims of the taxi trade to maintain profitability in the face of increasing costs, while protecting the public from excessive fares.”
Visit folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/taxi/information to see the full list of new fares and charges for taxis in the Folkestone & Hythe district.