Proposed Stirling Taxi Fare Changes: What You Need to Know

Taxi fares in Stirling may see an increase in 2025 following recommendations from a recent tariff review.

The proposed changes would impact all three fare tariffs, raising costs by approximately 3%, rounded to the nearest 10 pence. If approved, this would mark a notable adjustment in local transportation costs.

Under the proposed rates, a 10-mile trip would cost £23.60 compared to the current £22.90, while a 20-mile journey would rise to £44.70 from £43.40.

Understanding Stirling’s Tariff Structure

Stirling operates three distinct taxi tariffs based on journey specifics:

• Tariff 1: The standard fare for daytime hires has a base rate of £3.40 for the first half-mile, followed by 10p for every 86 yards.
• Tariff 2: For nighttime (11 PM–7 AM) and bank holiday hires, the fare begins at £4. This rate includes a 25% premium on Tariff 1 distances.
• Tariff 3: Designed for larger groups (five or more passengers), starting at £5.40 with a 60% premium over Tariff 1 distances.

The new review proposes base rate increases for all tariffs:

• Tariff 1: From £3.40 to £3.50.
• Tariff 2: From £4 to £4.10.
• Tariff 3: From £5.40 to £5.60.

The cost per incremental distance would also adjust:

• Tariff 1: 10p for every 83.5 yards.
• Tariff 2: 10p for every 66.8 yards.
• Tariff 3: 10p for every 52.2 yards.

Waiting-time charges and additional fees, such as a £50 soiling charge or 50p for advance bookings, remain unchanged.

The Cost of Operating a Taxi in Stirling

The fare review, conducted by LSVA, highlighted rising operational costs for Stirling taxi drivers. In 2024, the average annual cost to run a taxi reached £76,467.07, a 3% increase from 2023's £74,220.28. Key contributors to this rise include higher expenses for fuel, insurance, and vehicle servicing.

Average annual mileage for Stirling taxi drivers is reported at 39,982 miles. The review emphasized that despite these proposed fare hikes, the increases remain below the CPIH inflation rate and are less than the average national rise in taxi fares.

Timeline for Public Consultation and Council Decision

The recommendations will undergo public consultation, allowing feedback from both the taxi trade and Stirling residents. The findings will be presented to Stirling Council, with a decision anticipated by February 2025.

However, the exact implementation date for the new fare structure remains uncertain.

Factors Driving the Fare Review

Several economic indicators informed the review:

• Rising costs of vehicle maintenance, insurance, and licensing fees.
• Changes in average national earnings and inflation trends.
• Comparative analysis of similar fare adjustments across the UK. The LSVA's analysis underscores the delicate balance between addressing operational challenges for drivers and maintaining affordability for passengers.

Implications for Passengers and the Taxi Trade

For passengers, the fare increases signify modestly higher transportation costs, particularly for long-distance and late-night journeys. For taxi operators, the adjustments reflect a necessary step to sustain profitability amidst rising costs.

Stirling’s taxi trade now awaits the council's decision, which will determine the trajectory of local fares and their alignment with broader economic realities.