Southend could soon see Uber operating within the city after the company submitted a new licensing application. This comes seven years after the popular ride-hailing service was banned in 2018 due to safety concerns.
The application was confirmed by council leader Daniel Cowan at a full council meeting on Thursday, September 11. The news has ignited a debate, with some local figures raising alarms about the potential impact on traditional cabbies.
Simon Shepherd, a former taxi driver with nearly four decades of experience in the city, voiced strong opposition, stating that local taxi companies would be "absolutely slaughtered."
Shepherd believes Uber will "flood the area with cars" and use "discounts" and "vouchers" to quickly attract customers, a strategy he claims would make it impossible for local cabbies to compete.
He warned that this could put "an awful lot of people out of work," noting that "people live and work in this town... they are part and parcel of the community."
However, not everyone shares this apprehension. Martin Terry, councillor for community safety, noted that previous issues with the Metropolitan Police regarding access to driver records have been resolved, and "that's no longer an issue."
He added that Uber "offers competition and flexibility" and that if the service is now considered safe, "then we should welcome them."
In a statement, an Uber spokesperson said the company hopes the council will "welcome this opportunity," claiming it would "boost earning opportunities for local drivers, provide passengers with greater transport options across the city and support the local economy."
The company also highlighted that its drivers would be guaranteed at least the national living wage, with access to benefits like holiday pay, pensions, and GMB union representation.
The council confirmed it will now process the application through the appropriate channels.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, September 11, Chris Webb MP highlighted the negative impact on the local economy and the livelihoods of taxi drivers.
Stafford Borough Council has updated its taxi licensing policy to permit black hackney carriages in the area, ending its long-standing rule that only white vehicles could be used.
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