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Posted on the 23rd July 2025 in PHTM News
DENBIGHSHIRE TAXI FARE HIKE DELAY AFFECTING RHYL DRIVERS
Taxi drivers in Denbighshire will have to wait until at least September for an approved fare increase to take effect, a delay that one taxi firm owner calls "modern-day slavery."
Stephen Darbey, of Busy Bee Taxis, proposed new tariff increases to Denbighshire County Council's licensing committee in April. The proposals were approved in June but have been stalled after 12 responses were submitted during a public consultation period.
Had there been no objections, the new fares would have taken effect on August 7.
The delay means drivers will "have to work a whole summer on a pay which isn’t what it should be," said Darbey. "Everything’s going up in cost – fuel, cars, insurance, but our taxi meters are staying the same."
The council's current tariffs, which have been in place for some time, are a starting rate of £3.50 for the first mile between 6am and midnight, and £5.25 for the first mile between midnight and 6am
Darbey's approved proposals include a tiered system with a new Tariff 1 and 2 to help achieve the minimum wage and encourage drivers to work unsocial hours. A third tariff would be applied for minibuses to help cover the higher costs of those vehicles.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the concerns but stated they are legally required to refer the matter back to the licensing committee due to the formal objections.
The spokesperson also confirmed it is not feasible to hold an emergency meeting before the next scheduled one on September 10.
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