Posted on the 13th October 2025 in PHTM News

MAIDSTONE TAXI FARES TO RISE, MAKING SHORT TRIPS COST ABOUT £9

The cost of taxi fares in Maidstone is set to increase, raising the price of a typical two-mile journey to approximately £9 and doubling to £18 during the festive season.

The council plans to increase the flag-down fee during the day by 60p, moving it from £3.20 to £3.80. At night and on Sundays, the initial fee will rise to £5.70.

The starting price at Christmas and New Year will remain double the new daytime rate. The council also intends to make meters tick over more quickly, which will increase charges for distance and waiting time sooner.

Veteran Maidstone taxi driver, Melfa Faucet, argued that the increase is necessary, citing rising operational costs saying: “It’s only fair they catch up now.”

However, most passengers have criticised the proposed rise, warning it will make short trips too expensive. Only one passenger felt the prices would still be reasonable, saying: “Sometimes, if I’m running late and I come down from the train station, it costs about four or five pounds. That feels affordable.”

The new fares are the maximum drivers can charge, meaning some may choose to charge less.

The new fares will come into effect on October 16, unless objections are submitted to the council by noon on that day.

Residents can comment by emailing licensing@maidstone.gov.uk or writing to Licensing Services at Maidstone House.


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