BANK JUNCTION: City of London Councillors come out to back return of 24-hour taxi access

Campaigning for a return to 24-hour taxi access through one of the capital’s most iconic road junctions has been sparked again after support from councillors emerged.

In April, the City of London Corporation (COLC) confirmed a review will take place that could see restrictions on black cabs and other drivers crossing through Bank junction on weekdays lifted.

In the motion passed at the Court of Common Council, elected Members agreed to review all traffic restrictions currently in force. It will look at specific justifications for the restrictions and whether schemes comply with existing policy.

Currently only buses, cyclists and pedestrians have been allowed to access Bank Junction between 7am and 7pm on weekdays since 2017.

The motion put forward in April by Alderman Timothy Hailes was supported by 45 members of the Court of Common Council. It focused originally on just allowing future access to wheelchair accessible black cabs, however, a review for wider private vehicle usage has now been granted.

COLC Cllr. James Thomson said on Thursday: “Bank Junction in the great Ward of Walbrook in the of the ⁦City of London.

“Campaigning for access to Licensed Taxis East/West, West/East at all times on behalf of City businesses and those with mobility requirements. Vital for Destination City.”

That notion was also backed up by a further City Councilman. Cllr. Mark Wheatley said via social media: “John Thomson is absolutely right.

“Black cab drivers are safe and their fleet is increasingly ‘green’. City of London must not be inflexibly dogmatic. Bank Junction is the beating heart of a great City. It must allow circulation.”

Replying to Cllr Thomson’s message of support, taxi trade groups called the access ‘essential’ and ‘vital’.