A woman suffering chronic back pain is just one of many urging the City of London to reinstate black taxi access through Bank Junction and the Square Mile.
Councillor James Thomson from Walbrook Ward recently took the lead in launching the CAB (Cabs Across Bank) campaign, aiming to restore taxi access to Bank Junction and other restricted streets in the City of London. The campaign seeks fresh evidence to support the cause and grant licensed Hackney Carriages unrestricted access.
Individuals and businesses have responded to the call for evidence, highlighting the impact of the current restrictions on their daily lives. One individual, who suffers from chronic back pain, shared their experience of relying on black cabs for short-distance journeys in the City of London. They expressed frustration at the need for alternate routes due to the restrictions, which not only prolongs their journey but also increases the cost.
The individual also mentioned the difficulties they face while waiting for a cab near Bank Junction, as the restrictions force the drivers to take diversionary routes. They expressed disappointment in the lack of accessibility and the diminishing sense of welcome in the City of London. The person argued that black cabs are an integral part of public transport and should be embraced by the city.
The individual urged for a reversal of the ongoing restrictions on black cabs, particularly with the approach of darker evenings and limited vehicle access in side streets. They expressed feelings of vulnerability and reduced safety when navigating the city under these circumstances.
The CAB campaign, led by Councillor James Thomson, aims to gather more evidence to support the cause of granting unrestricted access to licensed Hackney Carriages across Bank Junction and other restricted streets. The campaign seeks to restore a sense of accessibility and inclusivity in the City of London, acknowledging the significance of black cabs as an integral part of London's transportation network.
The woman’s statement was shared by Cllr Thomson and said: “I suffer from chronic back pain and some days I am able to walk and other days I need to use a black cab in the City of London to go even the shortest of distances to business meetings or events.
“The taxi drivers are very apologetic they are unable to use Bank and have to take diversionary routes which increase the time of my journey and the cost.
“Often I can be in a location near to Bank and due to the restriction at Bank Junction and now Bishopsgate I can be standing a long time which impacts on my condition waiting to see the welcoming for hire light of a black cab coming towards me.
“What is most disappointing about this restriction is not only are Black Cabs part of public transport it is the fact the City of London used to be a welcoming and accessible environment. Black Cabs are part of the fabric of London and should be welcomed by the City of London.
“The recent road closures and decisions like restricting Bank to buses and cycles have no regard for anyone who has any mobility issue and whilst I may appear to look like I am a fit woman, the chronic pain I suffer is not outwardly visible and does not make the City a welcoming place for anyone who needs to get around.
“This ongoing restriction on Black Cabs needs to be reversed especially with the dark nights approaching where it is dark at 5pm and because many of the side streets have no or limited vehicle access it makes you feel vulnerable and less safe when moving around the City.
“I welcome you taking the time to champion this campaign and wish you every success with it.”
