Uber driver reported being "boxed in" and threatened by rival cabbies in Blackpool

Rising Tensions Between Uber and Local Taxi Drivers

Blackpool's 'taxi wars' rage on as an Uber driver reported being "boxed in" and threatened by rival cabbies. The incident, allegedly involving two local taxi drivers blocking the Uber driver and threatening him with a metal pole, occurred in Bispham Road last November. Speaking anonymously, the Uber driver expressed concerns for his safety, describing the event as a frightening confrontation tied to ongoing tensions between Uber and local cab drivers.

Uber’s Entry into Blackpool Sparks Controversy

Blackpool Council granted Uber a license to operate in August 2024, determining that the company met all legal requirements for a private hire operator’s license. The council stated it was obligated to approve the license because Uber fulfilled the necessary criteria. However, the decision has faced strong opposition from local private hire and Hackney Carriage drivers, who fear that Uber’s cheaper fares will significantly impact their livelihoods and income.

Uber Driver's Account of the Incident

The anonymous Uber driver detailed the incident, stating,

“I was driving down Bispham Road a few weeks ago, and two taxi drivers blocked me in and had a metal pole. But we are licensed now, and we are here to stay."

The claim highlights the heightened hostility some Uber drivers face in Blackpool as 'taxi wars' intensify.

Local Taxi Driver Responds

Neil Charnock, a Blackpool taxi driver, dismissed the Uber driver’s allegations. He remarked,

“It is very much a mystery. I cannot think of anyone so stupid enough to commit such an offence."

Charnock further noted that no local cabbies had reported such incidents to him and urged that any claims should be reported to the police.

Call for Investigation and Police Comments

Charnock emphasized that vehicles in the area are typically equipped with cameras, and any credible evidence of such an event should have been captured and reported to the authorities. Lancashire Police were approached for comments, but no updates were provided regarding investigations or complaints.

Blackpool's 'taxi wars' rage on as the struggle between traditional taxi drivers and Uber operators continues, raising questions about the challenges of integrating new ride-hailing services in local markets.