1.   that, in accordance with Standing Order D11, the statutory requirements, the timetable for implementation and the practical arrangements necessary to introduce any revised tariff, it is considered that delay arising from the call-in process could prejudice the Council's ability to conclude the statutory process within the prescribed timeframe, it is therefore necessary for the decision to be implemented immediately.

Cabinet approved the statutory process to vary Hackney Carriage fares on 21 July 2026.  Following the conclusion of the call-in period, applied at that time, the proposals were advertised as required, two objections were received by the closing date.

Under Section 65 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, Cabinet must consider the objections before determining whether to implement a revised tariff.  Any new tariff must come into force by 4 November 2026.

Due to the timing of the consultation and Cabinet meeting cycle, 20 October 2026 is the earliest opportunity for the objections to be considered.  Given the statutory deadline and the time required to produce and install updated fare stickers in licensed vehicles, it is recommended that call-in be waived.

Delay arising from call-in could prevent implementation of the revised tariff within the required timescale, potentially prejudicing both the Council's ability to complete the statutory process and the public interest.

Accordingly, the Cabinet’s decision is deemed to be urgent.  Therefore, Cabinet determines that call-in shall be waived as any delay likely to be caused by the call-in process would prejudice the publics and the Council’s interest.  The Overview and Scrutiny Co-ordinator was consulted on 5 October 2026, who expressed concern regarding the extent to which the views of the Overview and Scrutiny Co-ordinator influence the outcome of requests for a waiver of call-in; and

2.   that the Table of Fares (Hackney Carriage Tariff) as advertised, be approved and come into force on 4 November 2026.

The revised tariff would support a sustainable and viable taxi trade, assist drivers in meeting increased operating costs and encourage continued investment in vehicles while maintaining a regulated and transparent fare structure.

Maintaining the existing tariff was rejected as rising vehicle, maintenance, insurance and fuel costs were no longer adequately reflected in the current fare structure and could negatively impact service availability.

The decision in respect of the Hackney Carriage Tariff Increase will come into force immediately as the decision maker has decided that any delay likely to be caused by the call-in process would prejudice the publics and the Council’s interest.  The Overview and Scrutiny Co-ordinator was consulted on 5 October 2026.

On 21 July 2026, Cabinet considered the suggested increase to the Hackney Carriage Tariff and resolved to commence the public consultation on the proposed Table of Fares.  The consultation was undertaken in accordance with the statutory process set out in section 65 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 (LGMPA76).  The notice invited objections to be submitted by 4 September 2026.  Any objections received must be duly considered before the revised Table of Fares can come into effect, either as originally advertised or with such amendments as may be considered appropriate.  Two objections were received during the consultation period.  Whilst neither objection proposed an alternative fare structure, both objectors expressed opposition to any increase in taxi fares.

At the meeting Councillor David Thomas proposed and Councillor Chris Lewis seconded a motion that was unanimously agreed by the Cabinet, as set out above.

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