FATIGUED AND FRUSTRATED: London taxi drivers respond to news of sharp decrease in licensed cabbies
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
The number of licensed London taxi drivers has fallen again, with 68 drivers leaving the trade in a single week according to new Transport for London (TfL) figures. The drop has sparked widespread reaction across the industry, with many experienced cabbies sharing a mix of resignation, frustration and pride in their time behind the wheel.
Former driver James Blackmore confirmed he was among those who had recently surrendered their licence. He said the decision was difficult but ultimately right for him after years of dedication to the Knowledge. “I knew I was never going back to cab driving,” he said, adding that he had no regrets and wished luck to those still working.
Others reflected on how the job has changed. Veteran driver Tony Forino described the work as still rewarding after 30 years, while acknowledging that conditions have become tougher. Andy Grant, another long-time driver, replied that those who joined the trade in recent years have faced very different prospects, with lower earning power and rising costs making the job far less attractive than it once was in the eyes of long-term cabbies.
Many pointed to the high cost of running a taxi and the impact of city road policies. “Cabs too expensive to run, 20mph limits, cameras on every corner, less work,” said driver Wayne Trevett. Fellow driver Mason Booty added that the combination of costly vehicles, restricted roads, and constant traffic changes had made London driving “a headache”, with many roads closed off and penalties rising.
Several drivers suggested that City Hall’s transport policies were accelerating the decline. Drivers claimed the 20mph limits and cab prices were forcing drivers out. Some felt the trade unions needed to take stronger action to protect the profession from what they saw as regulatory pressure and unfair competition from private hire apps too.
Others took a more reflective tone. Keith McCready, who retired 20 years ago, recalled when taxi driving was “a love-hate relationship but more love than hate”, adding that the job had “declined due to road changes and London authorities”.
There were also comments highlighting the changing face of the industry. Some claim drivers are struggling to make the job sustainable, with long hours, high vehicle leasing costs and reduced rank space cited as problems. Several noted that new requirements such as the SERU test had become another concern or barrier to staying in work for some.
Despite some negativity from drivers and former cabbies, actively licensed drivers defended the profession and urged others not to talk it down. “I’ve been earning significantly more money than ever and working less hours,” wrote driver Dave Hunt, who criticised social media for spreading “constant moaning” that could deter new entrants from joining the trade.
The overall sentiment, however, reflected a trade at a crossroads. While many remain proud of their role as part of London’s heritage, the combination of regulation, costs, congestion, and competition has clearly taken its toll for some of the older drivers. For some, the decision to walk away was made with sadness; for others, with relief.
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