Rother taxi fare rises to be considered

Rother District Council’s cabinet is set to decide, on Monday (September 14), whether to vary its fare card for Hackney Carriage drivers.

Cabinet members had previously agreed to consult on a range of potential changes in June.

They heard how the existing fares had last been set in April 2023 when the cost of diesel was 161 pence per litre.

The report says this cost has varied significantly over the past year, between 141 and 191 pence per litre. At time of publication, the RAC Foundation puts the average price at 185 pence per litre.

In light of this price fluctuation and general inflation, officers say the proposed changes are considered to be “reasonable”.

Cabinet members are being asked to agree to several changes, including a higher starting fare and amendments which see money added after shorter distances and waiting times than before.

Council officers say these changes, which come alongside a higher cost for additional passengers (30p to 40p) plus a higher premium for transporting dogs (from 20p to 30p per dog), would result in a 10 per cent increase in fares overall.

Alongside this would be a change to when drivers can begin to charge their late night rate. Currently, this more expensive rate begins at 11pm, but would instead begin at midnight if the changes go ahead.