City Hall is seeking new powers to cap the number of mini cabs operating in the capital and regulate pedicabs from its streets.
According to official Transport for London figures, mini cab numbers are growing by more than 1,000 each month and there are concerns that a continued rise could see their numbers grow from 78,690 today to 105,000 over the next two years.
Mayor Boris Johnson said the numbers – which dwarf the capital’s 8000 bus fleet and 25,000 black cabs – posed “a threat to free movement of traffic on the roads.”
He’s promised to use his new position as a member of David Cameron’s political cabinet to push for new powers to impose a fixed cap on cab numbers.
In addition, Mr Johnson wants TfL given the power to regulate pedicabs which are often uninsured and aren’t required to undergo safety checks.
Alan says
Why don’t boris cap the mini cabs to the same as London black cabs. TFL are killing off the London iconic taxi with all these illegal mini cabs who have no c.b.r checks and have no knowledge of London ripping people off all the time.
abu says
Ban or regulate uber . congestion will ease. Uber is responsible for all the traffic. Because it allowing its driver to do what only black cab drivers are allowed .tfl failings London.
Jason says
WELL DONE BORIS,about time
Paul says
Mini cabs / chauffeurs are creating serious problems in central London. They park either illegally or in pay bays that they don’t pay for. They sit for hours with there engines running and prevent anyone else using the bays.
Their numbers should be capped to 50 000 and not allowed to drive within the central areas.
Saj says
Do we really need all these Minicabs? These new sad uber drivers haven’t got a clue where they are going so therefor they take the longest route on earth. That equals to a much higher fare. Which means the consumers are getting shafted and uber getting more commission from drivers. That’s what they want. Take the longer route.