TAXI fares could cost 30p more from next year as Wiltshire Council changes the tariff charges for Hackney Cabs.

Changes to the fares were first proposed in late January 2020 with a public survey taking place in February – in which the public and taxi trade were invited to respond.

The results favoured the option which would see the flag rates rise by 30p for vehicles of up to four seats.

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Other changes include tariff 3 only applying on public holidays, traffic 2 being implemented from 10pm rather than 11.30pm.

For vehicles of five seats or more tariff 5 would be changed to only apply on public holidays and tariff 4 will start at 10pm rather than 11.30pm.

The report on the changes said: “The impact of the changes are that it will make for cheaper late-night fares after 2.30am, addressing the issues raised in relation to the late night economy.

“The change to charge tariff 2 and 4 from 10pm will mean that travel between 10pm and 10.29pm is now slightly more expensive.”

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Changes to the tariff would incur a small cost of around £20 to adjust every vehicle meter, the report added.

“It was felt that given the hardship experienced by drivers and vehicle owners since March 2020, to implement this change during the peak of the pandemic would not be supportive of the industry,” it continued.

“As the economy begins to recover and return to more “normal” conditions the impact of the tariff changes on vehicle owners and drivers would be more sustainable.”

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The new tariffs will come into force on January 1, 2022, subject to the statuatory 28 day consultation process.