Posted on the 18th June 2025 in PHTM News

FREENOW EXPRESS CONCERNS OVER LACK OF DETAIL IN TFL'S PLAN TO SUPPORT TAXI TRADE

FREENOW has expressed concerns about the lack of detail in Transport for London's (TfL) new Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan, particularly regarding how it will address the declining number of taxi drivers. The taxi app believes the plan lacks a clear strategy for reversing the decline and calls for more specific measures to support the taxi trade. 

FREENOW, along with other industry stakeholders, feels that while the plan acknowledges the problem, it doesn't offer concrete steps to attract and retain drivers. 

Following a London Assembly Transport Committee meeting with TfL, Danny O’Gorman, FREENOW UK General Manager said: “Yesterday’s meeting was another missed opportunity to provide the clarity and leadership the taxi trade urgently needs. The Action Plan, as it stands, lacks a clear vision for the future of the black cab trade in London.

"Without timelines, tangible targets or clear funding commitments, it remains unclear as to how TfL intends to reverse the decline in taxi licences - which have plummeted to well below 15,000 in the last year, while ensuring the profession remains an attractive and viable career.

"Drivers need greater support in making the switch to greener vehicles, particularly as public subsidies come to an end and vehicle costs continue to rise - since 2017, the cost of purchasing a new electric cab has surged by 39% in cash terms.

"We believe the Green Finance Fund has real potential to help more taxi drivers go electric, and we have been actively campaigning hard for this support in recent months. It’s disappointing that this wasn’t addressed as part of a joined-up approach to support the trade’s future.

"Black cabs have a vital role to play as part of a sustainable and accessible transport network within the capital. To safeguard its future, the trade now needs clear, practical support and policy action to match its ambitions.

'At the same time, the now approved plan to ban taxis from Oxford Street undermines the role of black cabs as one of the most accessible transport options in the capital. A blanket ban will disproportionately impact disabled passengers, older citizens and visitors who rely on door-to-door travel while also impacting drivers' earnings.

"We urge City Hall and TfL to work with the trade on solutions that balance pedestrian access with inclusive transport.”

 

 

 


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