Watford launches taxi tariff consultation for 2026 with revised fare structure proposed
- Perry Richardson
- Jan 14
- 2 min read
Watford Borough Council has launched a statutory consultation on proposed changes to its Hackney Carriage Table of Fares, setting out revised tariffs that would apply from 2026 if approved.
The consultation, issued under section 65 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, covers all licensed hackney carriage vehicles operating in Watford and applies to both standard vehicles carrying up to five passengers and larger vehicles licensed for six passengers or more.
Under the proposals, the minimum charge across all tariffs would be set at £2.90. For standard vehicles operating under Tariff 1 between 06:00 and 23:00, the fare would begin at £2.90 for the first 109.7 metres or 25.7 seconds, with incremental increases of 20p based on distance or waiting time thereafter. A higher night-time and public holiday rate would apply under Tariff 2, with shorter initial distances triggering fare increments.
For larger vehicles carrying six or more passengers, the council is proposing a higher starting fare of £4.00 under both daytime and night-time tariffs. Subsequent increments would rise by 30p, reflecting the higher operating costs typically associated with multi-passenger vehicles.
Council opens statutory consultation on changes to Hackney Carriage fares, including higher starting rates for larger vehicles and night-time work.
The proposals retain a number of existing provisions, including an £80 soiling fee where cleaning is required, and the ability for drivers to charge double the metered fare on 24 and 31 December after 23:00, as well as on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Passengers would continue to be liable for any motorway tolls, crossings, congestion charges or similar additional costs incurred during a journey.
The consultation period allows any person to submit objections or comments on the proposed fare structure. Responses must be received by 12 noon on 30 January 2026, meeting the statutory requirement for a minimum 14-day objection window following first publication.
For drivers, the consultation represents a key opportunity to influence fare levels at a time when many cabbies are facing pressure from rising vehicle, insurance and compliance costs, while balancing affordability for passengers. Any objections received will need to be considered by the council before a final decision is taken on whether to implement the revised tariffs.
If no valid objections are received within the consultation period, Watford Borough Council may proceed to implement the new Table of Fares without further modification. If objections are lodged, the authority must consider them and may amend or abandon the proposals before adoption.
