Posted on the 28th October 2025 in PHTM News

DIRECT THREAT TO SURVIVAL: FIFE FARE RISE SLAMMED AS INSULTING AMID RISING COSTS

Plans by Fife Council to implement a 5% rise in taxi fares from December 5 have been met with fierce opposition, with the move branded a “direct threat to the survival of the trade.”

The strong criticism comes from the East Fife Taxi Association (EFTA), which slammed the proposed increase as “insulting and unsustainable.” 

The association argues the rise ignores the severe reality of running a taxi business, pointing out the hike is “so small that they don’t even cover inflation since the last review, never mind the steep rise in operating costs faced by drivers and operators.”

EFTA highlights that the proposed changes would see daytime flag fares increase to £3.78 and night-time charges to £4.95. They detail a host of surging costs faced by cabbies, including:

  • Vehicle prices jumping by up to £15,000 since 2019.

  • Garage labour and parts costs up more than 25%.

  • Insurance premiums remaining about 40% higher than in 2022.

  • New or increased Fife Council fees for meter reseals and missed tests.

A spokesperson for EFTA did not mince words, stating: “This isn’t a fare rise - it’s a cost-of-living cut for drivers. The council’s proposal is completely detached from the reality of running a taxi in 2025.”

The association warns that if the 5% rise goes ahead, the consequences for the public will be severe, with many drivers expected to leave the trade. “Drivers can’t cover their costs, operators can’t maintain vehicles, and passengers will soon find there’s nobody left to pick them up,” the spokesperson said, adding a stark safety warning: “It’s not just about money, it’s about safety and sustainability.”

EFTA believes that vehicle maintenance will be scaled back as operators struggle, leading to a fall in “safety and reliability standards.” They concluded: “Fife Council’s figures might look tidy on paper, but it is putting a vital public service at risk.”

The association is urging all drivers and operators to object to the proposed scale and sign its petition here: https://eastfife.scot/campaigns/taxi-fares-2025/

In response, Steve Paterson, legal team manager at Fife Council, confirmed a rise would come into effect from December 3.

He explained that the fare review is an annual process taken by the Regulation and Licensing Committee, stating: “Following this year's review, the decision to increase fares by 5% was taken at the committee in September.” 

He added that the review is currently undergoing a "statutory consultation" period, with all representations to be "evaluated and considered to inform the process prior to a final decision being taken next month.”


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