Posted on the 17th September 2025 in PHTM News
ROCHFORD COUNCIL CONSIDERS EXPANDING TAXI RANK NEAR RAYLEIGH STATION TO IMPROVE SAFETY
A car park near Rayleigh station could receive an expanded taxi rank in response to concerns over the safety of women travelling late at night.
The proposal, which calls for eight or nine taxi bays at The Approach Car Park, was part of a discussion during a Rochford Council meeting regarding a £96,000 car park revamp.
The plans were approved by the economic development, regeneration, and tourism committee on September 11. However, the taxi rank issue is being reviewed separately as part of a broader assessment of taxi services across the district.
Matthew O’Leary, a Lib Dem councillor, highlighted the issue, stating: "I am hearing that getting taxis late at night in particular is difficult, that’s a concern especially in regard to safeguarding women on their own."
He urged the council to investigate whether an enlarged taxi rank would help resolve the problem.
Council leader Danielle Belton acknowledged the issue, noting: "The taxi rank issue is certainly under review while feasibility is considered as part of a bigger picture."
She added that changes in parking charges by Greater Anglia at the station front have also impacted drivers' earnings, a factor that needs to be considered.
"I support extra bays in the town and at the station but I'd like it to be done as a considered piece of work to ensure we get it right first time," Belton said.
The current car park has 40 season ticket spaces, 46 pay-and-display spaces, and a taxi rank with room for four vehicles.
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