Posted on the 10th December 2025 in PHTM News

WIRRAL BLACK CAB FARES ROW: UNION PUSHES FOR HIKE DESPITE DRIVER FEARS OF BEING PRICED OUT

Wirral councillors are set to debate a proposal by Unite the Union to increase hackney carriage (black cab) fares, a move that has been met with significant opposition from some drivers concerned about competition and the rising cost of living.

The proposal, which will be considered by the regulatory and general purposes committee, would see day rates increase by as much as 13% for longer journeys and a 13% increase for one-mile journeys at Christmas and New Year.

A new tariff for longer journeys outside Wirral is also set to be introduced. If approved, the new fares would take effect no later than January 26.

Four objections were sent to the council, raising fears that the increase would affect “the small amount of work we have now” and felt the fare increase was “wrong during the current economic climate”.

One objector argued that the trade is already struggling due to reduced footfall in areas like Liscard and Birkenhead, and competition from private hire vehicles, “especially Uber private hire drivers picking up right next to the ranks”.

They strongly disagreed with the union's approach, stating: “So instead of trying to be competitive in a saturated market, we carry on pricing ourselves out of the market? It doesn’t make sense unfortunately. You don’t have shops that are struggling for trade think let’s increase prices to gain more sales it’s a failed business idea! They give offers.” 

The same objector also questioned the union's mandate, saying they did not represent “even represent half of the hackney carriage drivers.”

Unite the Union hit back, criticising the council for a previous fare decision made without their consultation, saying: “We feel this is a slap in the face to the taxi trade.” 

The union warned that the lack of support has angered drivers, with “Many are now talking about leaving the trade and driving private hire vehicles as the operating costs are considerably lower.” 

They also noted the easy, cheaper option of getting a badge and plate in Wolverhampton.

Addressing the objections, the union asserted that there have been objectors to every fare increase for 38 years. They argued that objectors should be required to provide “factual evidence why the objection should stand. Just having an opinion that is not based on fact should be dismissed.”

Unite also suggested that the financial circumstances of objectors should be considered, questioning if opposition is coming from drivers for whom the cab is “just extra income to pay for holidays, etc?” contrasted with those who “desperately needs an increase to survive. This needs serious consideration.”


Read another story