Posted on the 3rd July 2026 in PHTM News

DERBY CABBIES WARN ROAD CHANGES ARE TURNING CITY CENTRE INTO A GHOST TOWN

Derby taxi drivers have raised fears that a wave of restrictive traffic measures is actively pushing cars out of the city centre and crippling local businesses. Local cabbies claim that the city's streets have become too difficult to navigate, causing both shoppers and companies to abandon the area in favour of online shopping or neighbouring cities.

The growing frustration stems from several recent road overhauls by Derby City Council, including the pedestrianisation of Iron Gate, restricted access zones, a perceived lack of parking, and a permanent one-way system implemented on Albert Road and Victoria Street.

One major flashpoint is Corporation Street, which bans cars and private hire vehicles between 7am and 7pm to prioritise buses, cyclists, and hackney carriages. This specific bus lane generated £1.7 million in fines for the council in just over a year, while leaving excluded private hire drivers stuck in unnecessary gridlock on alternative routes.

Hackney driver Mr. Colella argues that these restrictions are choking the life out of a once-thriving nighttime and shopping economy. "I think they should make the city centre more accessible to vehicles," Colella said. "But they are going the other way, keeping cars out of the city centre and getting people on the buses.

"People are turning to online shopping because shopping in Derby is not a fun experience any more."

He pointed out that parts of the city have suffered heavily from the changes, leaving empty storefronts in their wake.

"Iron Gate, which used to be thriving, and then they pedestrianised it. Then, one by one, all the businesses disappeared. Even Bennetts closed," Colella warned, adding a stark comparison to Derby's nightlife: "There are more people out in Nottingham on a Monday afternoon than in Derby on a Friday or Saturday night."

Fellow cabbie Fazal Hussain echoed these concerns, noting that retailers such as Matalan and Farmfoods have already moved away from struggling areas like Green Lane.

However, the Labour-led city council has defended its transport strategy, insisting that cleaner air and reduced congestion will ultimately benefit the local economy.

Councillor Carmel Swan, cabinet member for climate change, transport, and sustainability, argued that pushing for public transport, walking, and cycling creates a "cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment."

Addressing concerns over accessibility, Swan stated that available parking spaces still exceed demand for those who do choose to drive.

The council maintains that it is actively working to revive the high street and support the taxi trade by filling empty shops and attracting crowds back to the center.

“We are also actively boosting footfall through a lively culture and events programme," Councillor Swan said, pointing to local initiatives and grant schemes designed to bring empty units back into use and create a "vibrant city centre."


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