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Posted on the 20th June 2025 in PHTM News
EAST AYRSHIRE TAXI FARE HIKE REJECTED AMID PUBLIC OUTCRY
A proposal to increase taxi fares in East Ayrshire has been rejected by councillors following a wave of public opposition, ensuring current rates remain in place.
Taxi drivers had sought to raise the basic fare and subsequent distance charges, citing rising operational costs.
The rejected proposal would have seen the basic fare for journeys up to three-quarters of a mile increase from £4 to £4.50, with every subsequent 125 yards rising from 20p to 25p. This would have led to a 1.5-mile journey costing £7.25, up from £6.20, with longer journeys seeing proportional increases.
Surcharges for multi-seater taxis were also slated to rise by up to 50 percent.
However, councillors on the panel prioritised the impact on residents who depend on taxis, noting that the proposed increases would have made East Ayrshire the fourth most expensive area for taxi fares in Scotland and the 21st highest in the UK.
"Leaving aside the toxicity, the hostility and the usual rhetoric... all of the responses from the public opposed the hike," stated Chief Governance Officer David Mitchell, highlighting the overwhelming public sentiment against the fare increase.
A total of 12 submissions were received during the consultation, all of which were against the proposed changes.
While acknowledging the financial pressures faced by taxi drivers, councillors ultimately sided with the public, citing the potential burden on passengers and East Ayrshire's already high ranking in national fare tables.
This decision means the existing taxi tariff will remain in effect beyond July 31, 2025, pending any future review or appeal.
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