Posted on the 29th August 2025 in PHTM News

SEFTON TAXI FARES MAY RISE AMID 'DRIVER SHORTAGES'

Hackney carriage fares in Sefton are set to be reviewed as representatives of the taxi trade push for increases to combat "rising inflation, running costs and significant driver shortages."

The proposals will be presented to the Sefton Council Licensing Committee on Monday, September 1, 2025.

The proposed changes include:

  • A new Tariff 3: This new fare would apply on Friday and Saturday evenings from midnight to 6am

  • Earlier start for Tariff 2: The current Tariff 2, which applies from 11pm to 6am, would begin two hours earlier, at 9pm

  • Change the starting fares for each tariff to the following: Tariff 1 – £3.20 (currently £2.90), Tariff 2 – £4.00 (currently £3.60), Tariff 3 – £4.40 (new weekend tariff), Tariff 4 – £4.80 (currently £4.10 as tariff 3) 

  • Automated meters: The trade is also requesting a move to calendar-controlled meters that would automatically switch between tariffs, replacing the current manual system.

  • Increased "fouling" charge: The maximum charge for soiling a taxi would increase from £40 to £50.

A Sefton Council report notes that the last fare increase was in October 2023.

The proposed changes are an attempt to "ensure drivers' net earnings do not fall below previous levels in real terms" and to "encourage drivers to better service the later times surrounding the night-time economy."

The new tariffs are also intended to help "maintain the current number of vehicles available as well as retaining and attracting new drivers and owners."

If the recommendations are agreed and no objections are received then it is suggested that the implementation date is 14 days following subsequent publication of the proposed new fees locally.


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