Taxi drivers in Daventry call for an increase in the maximum soiling charge for passengers

Taxi drivers in Daventry are calling for an increase in the maximum fine they can dish out for cleaning or soiling. In the new set of proposals, which will give local residents the chance to have their say, drivers are asking for the soiling charge to rise to £70 from its current £50 maximum limit.

The 14 day consultation will take place in the coming weeks and will also ask residents if they have any objections to a fare increase in all hackney carriage taxis. As reported in the Northampton Chronicle, taxi drivers haven’t seen a fare increase in 12 years. The current standard rate is £3.20, with the proposals setting a new rate to £3.60. The figures would increase by 40p for each of the next stages, at £5.60 for two miles, £11.60 for five miles, £21.60 for ten miles and £31.60 for fifteen miles. The new proposals would also see an increase to double time rates, with a rise of 80p to £7.20 for a mile, up from £6.40. The consultation was approved on April 11, at a strategy group meeting chaired by Cllr Richard Auger, who said: “I did some research and in 2007, for 40 litres of fuel it would cost £27, whereas in 2019 it now costs £49.

"These tariffs have not gone up since 2007, and running costs have increased. “There’s a balance between the public who use taxis, and the drivers who need to earn a living. Looking at fares nationally, we will still be below the average.” Cllr Alan Hills adds: “I support this, but it’s right that we consult. Let’s face it, if you’re a member of the public you won’t like an increase, but you have to look at it in a practical sense. Taxi drivers have to work very hard to make a decent living.” And Cllr Adam Brown said: “There’s nothing objectionable in this, it seems like a bit of a no brainer. I think they’re overdue a pay rise.” If residents show disapproval to any of the proposals then feedback will be passed to the council’s licensing committee who will make a final decision on the increased charges. If residents show no objections, the new tariffs will be set.

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