NEW FUEL GRANTS: Basildon Council set to introduce Taxi Fuel Support Grants amid rising pump price costs
- Perry Richardson
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Basildon Council is set to introduce a Taxi Fuel Support Grant aimed at helping licensed drivers manage rising fuel costs, according to the authority’s leader Gavin Callaghan.
In a statement shared publicly, Callaghan said taxi drivers remain “a vital part of Basildon”, highlighting their role in supporting residents and maintaining economic activity across the borough at all hours.
The proposed grant comes as operators continue to face cost pressures linked to fuel prices. Callaghan attributed the latest increases to global geopolitical tensions, stating drivers “shouldn’t be left footing the bill for rising fuel costs”.
He confirmed that the council would move forward with a targeted support scheme, adding: “That’s why we will introduce a Taxi Fuel Support Grant for licensed drivers in our borough.”
Local authority pledges financial assistance for licensed drivers as fuel prices increase
The announcement signals a continuation of local authority intervention in the sector following earlier pandemic-era measures. During COVID-19, many councils, including Basildon, introduced financial relief packages to support taxi and private hire drivers facing reduced demand and operational disruption.
Callaghan referenced this precedent, stating: “We backed our taxi drivers through Covid when times were tough, and we’ll step up again now.”
While full details of the scheme, including eligibility criteria, funding levels and application timelines, have not yet been published, the move is very likely to be closely watched by other licensing authorities assessing similar cost pressures within their own taxi and private hire markets.
The measure may also carry broader implications for local transport resilience, as councils seek to retain sufficient driver numbers amid ongoing economic challenges. Rising operating costs have been cited across the industry as a factor contributing to driver shortages in some areas.
Callaghan added that the council’s approach reflects a wider commitment to supporting compliant drivers, stating: “Because if you work hard, play by the rules, and keep Basildon moving, your council should have your back.”
Further details on the Taxi Fuel Support Grant are expected to be released in due course.
