Norwich Black Cab Fares to Rise—Drivers Still Seek Fair Pay

Norwich City Council has proposed an increase in black cab fares across the city, aiming to address concerns over driver earnings. The revised tariff would see daytime fares rise from £3.30 to £4.40, while nighttime fares would increase from £3.50 to £4.60. Weekend and bank holiday rates would also be adjusted from £3.70 to £4.80. However, charges for Christmas and New Year would remain unchanged.

The council has the authority to regulate fares for black cabs operating on a rank-and-hail basis, ensuring fair pricing and industry stability. However, private taxi firms, which operate independently, set their own rates. This disparity has led to concerns among black cab drivers, who argue that private firms charge significantly higher fares for similar journeys.

While many drivers appreciate the proposed increase, they express frustration over the ongoing wage gap between black cabs and private taxis. Kierran Greaves, a cab driver with over a decade of experience, acknowledged the necessity of the fare adjustments but highlighted the financial gap.
Greaves stated:

"This would be the third pay rise since I've been a cabbie. I appreciate it's to try and make sure we can both run and maintain our living, as well as look after our families, but we're still lagging behind the private firms."

Another driver, Ab Turkucu, supported the increase but pointed out the competitive disadvantage black cabs face due to fixed metered fares.
Turkucu said:

"It's still a bit low however when you have the other private companies not having to work with the taximeters, so they set prices higher than we can. It feels like we work for nothing sometimes."

Similarly, cab driver Lawrence welcomed the proposal, emphasizing the challenges faced due to rising costs.
Lawrence noted:

"It's been such a long time since we've had a pay rise and with everything else going sky high we've been left behind. Other firms can charge what they like so it's about time we get something."

Despite the planned fare increase, black cab drivers continue to call for further measures to ensure they remain competitive within the industry.