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Posted on the 17th June 2025 in PHTM News
GLASGOW TAXI FARES SET FOR 3 PER CENT HIKE AMID DRIVER PUSH FOR HIGHER NIGHT CHARGES
Taxi fares across Glasgow are poised to increase by an average of 3.32%, with a proposed rise in the minimum flag fall from £4.40 to £4.50.
The recommendations stem from an independent review, which concluded that "the costs of operating a taxi in Glasgow, the production costs, have increased."
However, the proposed changes, which include a slight adjustment to the soiling charge from £46 to £47, are meeting with mixed reactions from trade representatives. While the overall increase is acknowledged, some drivers are advocating for more significant adjustments, particularly concerning night-time fares and charges for additional passengers.
The review, conducted by Dr. James Cooper, suggests a fine-tuning of distance and time increments for each additional 30p charge. The flag fall distance and time would shift from 889 yards to 880 yards and 167 seconds to 165 seconds respectively, with subsequent increments also slightly reduced.
A key point of contention is the night charge, currently set at an additional £1.50 for hires between 9 pm and 6 am. The Glasgow Taxi Owners Federation is pushing for an increase to £2, arguing it would "encourage night working." They also propose extra charges for more than two passengers.
Furthermore, trade bodies are disputing some of Dr. Cooper's underlying figures, particularly regarding insurance costs. While Dr. Cooper's report notes that "insurance costs have declined over the period of review," Unite the union Glasgow cab section strongly disagrees. A survey of their members revealed "not one has reported a reduction" in insurance costs, with an average increase of around 8%.
Unite also highlighted rising radio dispatch costs and the financial barriers posed by high new vehicle costs and the removal of grants.
They further called for a review of the council's approved vehicle list, stating that "the dependence on local suppliers is preventing competitiveness, as more cost-effective vehicles are now available across the UK."
Concerns have also been raised by Unite regarding clarity on previous changes to night and Christmas/New Year charges, citing "confusion" over whether the £2.70 extra Christmas/New Year rate is in addition to the current £1.50 night rate.
Despite these differing views, a council report indicates that Glasgow Taxis believes the review is "in line with their thinking and are satisfied that it represents a true picture of the trade."
Trade bodies are able to present their arguments to the licensing committee on Wednesday, June 18, before any final decisions are made.
The last fare review, which came into effect last September, saw a 9.72% increase.
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