“Nothing is off the table”: Watch Mayor of London question whether black cab turning circle rule is still needed as taxi costs soar
- Perry Richardson
- 1 minute ago
- 2 min read
The future of London’s famous black cab turning circle requirement has been thrown into the spotlight after Mayor of London Sadiq Khan publicly questioned whether the rule remains necessary in 2026 for the first time.
Speaking during a London Assembly question session, Khan revealed he is exploring options to help reduce the cost of black cabs, including examining whether the capital’s unique turning circle requirement still serves a practical purpose in the modern era.
The issue was raised during a discussion about the challenges facing London’s taxi and private hire sectors. Responding to concerns from Elly Baker about the future supply of black cabs, Khan acknowledged growing worries about the viability of the trade and the high cost of entering it.
Khan said: “I am really worried about the future of black taxis.”
He added that discussions are taking place with the taxi industry, including recent talks with Steve McNamara, about measures that could support the sector.
“One of the things we are trying to do is bring down the cost of these black taxis,” Khan said. “It is a conversation I had recently with Steve McNamara from the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association in relation to what we can do to help. The Deputy Mayor is looking into what we can do to help.”
The Mayor then directly questioned one of the defining features of London’s licensed taxi fleet. “It is a question I am asking. Is this requirement for the turning [circle] to be the way it is really necessary in 2026?”
London taxis are required to meet strict Conditions of Fitness standards, including the ability to turn within a tight circle. The requirement was originally designed to enable taxis to navigate locations such as the entrance to the Savoy Hotel and other narrow streets across the capital. The specification has long been regarded as one of the characteristics that distinguishes a purpose-built London taxi from other vehicles.
However, Khan suggested the rule may now be contributing to higher vehicle costs and reduced competition among manufacturers. “Bear in mind the cost means it is one supplier, and the cars are so expensive,” he said.
Khan also questioned whether aspiring cab drivers would be willing to invest at current price levels. “If you are a would-be black cab driver, would you spend that much money on these vehicles and stuff?” he asked.
While no formal proposal has been announced, the remarks represent one of the clearest indications yet that City Hall may be willing to examine long-standing vehicle specifications in an effort to improve affordability and encourage new entrants into the taxi trade.
The Mayor stressed that all options remain under consideration, saying: “Nothing is off the table in terms of what we can do to help these two industries.”
