Dundee City Council is moving forward with proposals to increase taxi fares in the city by nearly 5%. This decision comes after a meeting of the local authority’s licensing committee on March 14, 2024, where members discussed the annual review of taxi hire charges. The council agreed to publicly advertise the proposed increase for a month, allowing residents the opportunity to express any objections.
If the fare increase is approved, it will take effect on April 1, 2024. The last adjustment to taxi fares in Dundee occurred in December 2024, when councillors sanctioned a 13% rise just three months prior.
Public Consultation and Feedback Process
The council’s licensing committee aims to ensure that the public has a voice in this decision. During the month-long consultation, community members can submit their feedback regarding the proposed fare hike. Should any objections arise, these will be revisited by the committee for further consideration.
The increase aligns with a suggestion made by the director of eTaxi, who advocated for harmonizing Dundee’s taxi fares with those in the neighboring region of Angus. This alignment, he argued, would help maintain a fair and consistent service for customers and provide a more balanced structure for drivers. The intention is to create greater uniformity for those who frequently travel between the two council areas.
Rationale Behind Fare Adjustment
The proposed fare increase reflects the ongoing challenges faced by taxi operators in maintaining service levels while managing rising operational costs. Dundee’s taxi industry, like many others, has been impacted by inflation and increased fuel prices, making a review of fare structures essential.
By considering this adjustment, the council aims to support local taxi drivers while ensuring that the service remains accessible to the public. The licensing committee will continue to evaluate the feedback from the consultation process before making a final decision.
As the consultation period unfolds, stakeholders from across Dundee are encouraged to participate and voice their opinions on the proposed fare changes. The outcome could significantly influence the taxi service landscape in the city, affecting both operators and customers alike.
