TAXI SHORTAGES: Decline in wheelchair accessible cabs for disabled passengers criticised in Holyrood debate
- Perry Richardson
- 19 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Scotland’s Parliament heard renewed criticism of transport provision for disabled passengers after MSPs raised concerns that too few accessible taxis are available and that current policy is failing to support drivers to keep these vehicles on the road.
The comments were made during a debate marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, with several contributors highlighting mobility barriers that persist despite longstanding commitments to improve access.
Speakers drew attention to long waits routinely faced by wheelchair users attempting to book accessible taxis. One MSP, told the chamber that disabled people are forced to wait excessive periods because the supply of suitable vehicles is too small, adding that policy decisions have made it harder for some drivers to remain in business with accessible fleets. The lack of vehicle availability was described as a barrier that undermines wider inclusion efforts.
Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP said: “When disabled people try to use accessible taxis to get around, we face long waits because there are very few taxis available, as a result of some policy decisions that can make it difficult for taxi drivers to remain in business.”
MSP said a shortage of accessible taxis is restricting disabled people’s mobility across Scotland
Concerns were also raised over Scotland’s limited capacity for carrying more than one wheelchair user at a time in all modes of transport. MSPs said this was not a technical impossibility but appeared to reflect choices in vehicle standards and commissioning. They warned that overall system design remains skewed towards single-user accommodation which prevents groups of disabled passengers travelling together.
MSPs went on to note that parts of the public transport network remain still inaccessible. Glasgow’s subway was cited as an example of infrastructure that remains off limits to many, putting further emphasis on taxi services to fill the gap.
It has been long argued that current regulatory and economic conditions may be discouraging investment in accessible vehicles, calling into question whether local authorities and Government are providing sufficient support or incentives. The issue carries implications for fleet planning and long-term viability for operators and drivers considering accessible models.
