Transport for London has proposed axing the Capital Call subsidised mini cab service in a bid to save £470,000 per year and avoid duplicating the service offered by the “more popular” Taxicard scheme.
Capital Call was set up in 2003 to provide low-cost mini cab journeys to disabled residents in ten boroughs where the number of taxi cabs was lower than in other parts of London.
However TfL says an increase in taxi numbers means the service is no longer needed and “unnecessarily duplicates” the Taxicard and Dial-a-Ride schemes.
Garrett Emmerson, TfL Surface Transport Chief Operating Officer, said: “This proposal reflects both changes to the subsidised travel schemes and the way in which people are using these services.
“Significantly fewer people are now using Capital Call, which effectively duplicates the Taxicard scheme which now includes minicabs as well as taxis.
“Together, Taxicard and Dial-a-Ride would continue to ensure that mobility impaired Londoners have access to two services that ensure they can get around the city.”
TfL has launched a public consultation on its proposal which can be accessed online and says it’s writing to every registered Capital Call member to ask for their views.
A decision will be made on a borough by borough basis in summer 2014.
Capital Call and Taxicard usage numbers
