London taxi drivers prepare for a third night of protests as access row continues

No let off from the capital’s cabbies

London taxi drivers blocked Tottenham Court Road for the second night running protesting against plans to restrict access. With no discussions or resolution on the table cabbies are preparing for a third evening of ongoing demonstrations today. Drivers are heavily against the busy one-way street converting to a two-way system with full 24-hour access only available to buses and cycles. Between 8am and 7pm Monday to Saturday, no other vehicle will be able to use the road. The changes come as Camden Council plans to invest £35 million to transform the area highlighting the need to improve air quality and road safety. The decision to exclude taxis on the basis of safety and air quality, but not buses, has been met by anger within the industry. The black cab, a public transport vehicle, has been overlooked despite moving to zero emission vehicles and recent concerns over bus safety. Cabbies who use Tottenham Court Road will face a £130 fine if they pass through the restrictions.