London cabbies look set for Tooley Street access much to dismay of cycling lobby group
Following a week long taxi demo the London taxi trade has received reassurances from the regulators that road access to Tooley Street will remain open to cabbies. Industry representatives met with Transport Commissioner, Mike Brown, this week to discuss key issues surrounding the taxi trade. Most of the talking points centred around the growing trend to restrict cabbies access, but allow other public vehicles like buses to continue using the roads. The controversial Tooley Street proposal looked to change the layout of the street, include a no left turn for cabbies from London Bridge and restricted access on a section of Tooley Street itself. Despite buses retaining access the regulators said the changes would reduce road danger, improve air quality, and provide better facilities to enable people to walk, cycle and use public transport, supporting the objectives of the Mayor’s Transport Strategy. Cabbies took to the streets last week and demoed on each weekday evening rush-hour demanding taxis had the same access as buses. The LTDA also contacted senior Transport for London officials highlighting the proposals were in direct conflict with the Mayors Transport Strategy. According to trade sources the regulator has since agreed to the strategy conflict and that the consultation was currently supporting the need for taxi access to remain. The Cycle London Campaign Group who hold significant lobbying power are seen to dismayed by the decision to allow the 100% wheelchair accessible taxi fleet the opportunity to continue delivering its public service. The group are targeting more cyclists to respond to the consultation by handing out leaflets asking for their support to ban taxis. Taxi drivers have been strongly urged to fill in the consultation to help back up the need for taxi access.