Posted on the 13th March 2026 in PHTM News

FIFE TAXI FARES SET TO RISE AS COUNCILLORS BALANCE DRIVER COSTS AND PASSENGER BUDGETS

Taxi passengers in Fife will soon face higher travel costs after local councillors approved a fare hike to help drivers cope with surging business expenses.

Under the new agreement, daytime fares will increase by five per cent, while night-time journeys between 10pm and 6am will jump by 10 per cent.

The decision by Fife Council’s Regulation and Licensing Committee follows a review that began last year but was delayed due to "operational pressures."

Officials admitted the delay was not the fault of the committee, with legal team manager Steven Paterson stating: “I take full responsibility for any shortcomings in this case.” 

Despite the wait, the council moved to finalise the changes to ensure taxi operators were not further disadvantaged.

During the consultation, taxi firms argued that the rise was a matter of survival rather than just covering fuel. One firm highlighted that they are facing “ever-increasing motor insurance costs, motor maintenance costs, council licensing costs, but the biggest increase to our business are the staff wages.” 

The East Fife Taxi Association supported this view, warning that “without an increase, drivers will continue to struggle to cover their costs and many may leave the trade.”

While the council acknowledged that any price hike could be difficult for residents during a cost-of-living crisis, members felt the compromise was necessary.

Councillor Carol Lindsay noted the need for “fairness for taxi drivers and the cost of living for passengers as well,” concluding that the new rates strike a “fair and reasonable” balance for everyone involved.

The new fares are expected to take effect in May once meters have been updated and the changes have been officially advertised.


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