TAXI fares across the Stroud district are to rise amid the increase in fuel costs and the cost-of-living crisis.

The plans - which will take effect on Monday, July 18 unless objections are made - are the first increase in the rate in the Stroud district since 2018.

Price increases will affect the three set rates offered. 

These rates differ according to the time of day, day of the week or if it is a Bank Holiday. 

The price increases will affect the starting rate, increments during the taxi ride, the waiting time and the approximate fare. 

For example, the starting rate will go up from £2.80 to £3.20 (40p) for rate one, from £3.25 to £3.60 (35p) for rate two and from £4 to £4.30 (30p) for rate 3. 

The approximate fares for the first mile will go up from £4.70 to £5.40 (70p) for rate one, £5.60 to £6.20 (60p) for rate two and from £6.70 to £7.20 (50p) for rate three. 

These plans apply to Hackey Carriage Vehicles – these are the ones which have a white licence plate, a taxi sign on the roof and can be hailed in the street.

These vehicles operate mostly from town centre ranks and do not need to be pre-booked.

The changes do not apply to private hire vehicles which can only be pre-booked and are not allowed to pick up passengers from ranks or be hailed in the street.

The new fares are due to be implemented on Monday, July 18. 

Councillor Chris Brine, who is the chair of Stroud District Council's community services and licensing committee, explained the decision. 

"Taxi fares in the Stroud district were last increased in February 2018," he said.

“Earlier this year drivers requested an increase in fares due to the increase in fuel costs and the cost of living.

"After consulting with drivers, proposed new fares were approved at the council's community services and licensing committee on June 23 and will come into effect on July 18.

"The taxi rates are the maximum that the taxi drivers can charge within the district and they have the option to charge less. 

“Stroud District Council does not control private hire rates, as those vehicles are pre-booked and a fee can be agreed before the journey starts.

"The council plan pledges to support businesses and build foundations for a sustainable and inclusive local economy."

One taxi driver said: “The proposals appear to be fair to both the taxi trade and clients, bearing in mind the cost of running an efficient business."

Any objections to the plans should be made in writing to the licensing manager at Stroud District Council or via email to licensing@stroud.gov.uk

  • This information was advertised in our public notices section which you can find here