TfL licensed black cabs PLUMMET by over 100 in just one week as minicab licences continues surge

The number of licensed taxis in the capital plummeted by 119 vehicles in just one week, according to recently released data from Transport for London (TfL).

According to regulators TfL, in the week ending Sunday 15 October 2023, the total number of licensed taxis dropped by over 100, while private hire licences continued to show an upward trend.

The data disclosed that the number of licensed taxi vehicles removed from the roads reached 174, leaving a total of 14,907 black cabs to roam ply-for-hire in the capital during the same week. There were 55 new electric taxi licences issued, meaning a a total decline in licensed black cabs of 119.

While the taxi numbers took a hit, the private hire sector showed continued growth. The number of private hire vehicles licensed climbed by a huge 206 compared to the previous week, reaching a total of 90,765.

These figures highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the traditional taxi industry, with some attributing the decrease in licensed taxis to high vehicle costs making it more difficult for part-time drivers to work.