London taxi trade applies for emergency injunction in bid to stop proposed Bishopsgate bus gate

A legal firm working on behalf of the London taxi industry has applied for an emergency injunction against Transport for London’s (TfL) proposed Streetspace Bishopsgate scheme.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) and United Trade Action Group (UTAG) have both taken the next steps to challenge both the Mayor of London and TfL over its new Streetspace plans near Liverpool Street Station, which closes through road access to motorists and wheelchair accessible licensed taxis.

Earlier this month the same two taxi groups joined together to submit legal papers to the High Court, challenging not only the new Bishopsgate Bus Gate scheme, but also a review of the entire London Streetspace plans.

The new traffic restrictions on Bishopsgate and Gracechurch Street in the City of London will be in operation on weekdays between 7am and 7pm and will only allow access through the gates to buses and cyclists.

A spokesperson from legal firm Chiltern Law said via social media: “Yesterday (Friday), on behalf of our clients UTAG and the LTDA, we applied for an emergency injunction against TfL’s proposed Streetspace scheme for Bishopsgate. They will stand up for those supposedly protected by law and for the legal status of black cabs.”

A spokesperson from UTAG added via social media: “UTAG and LTDA are challenging the streetspace plans failure to take account of the Black Cabs status.The Black Cab is a vital lifeline of the elderly and less able in our society and we intend to stand up for them.

“We’ve filed an injunction to stop the Bishopsgate scheme starting 01/09.”