Not Fare! Rother Taxi Charges Could Rise By 10 Per Cent

Taxi fares in Rother could increase by around 10 per cent if proposed changes are approved by council leaders.

Rother District Council's cabinet is due to decide on Monday (14 September) whether to change the authority's fare card for Hackney Carriage drivers.

Councillors agreed in June to consult on a range of potential changes to fares.

The current fares were last set in April 2023, when diesel cost around 161 pence per litre.

Since then, diesel prices have fluctuated significantly, ranging from 141 to 191 pence per litre over the past year.

At the time the council's report was published, the RAC Foundation put the average price at 185 pence per litre.

Council officers say the proposed changes are “reasonable” in light of fuel price fluctuations and wider inflation.

If approved, passengers would face a higher starting fare, with additional charges being applied after shorter distances and waiting periods than under the current system.

The proposals would also increase the charge for additional passengers from 30p to 40p, while the charge for transporting dogs would rise from 20p to 30p per dog.

Overall, the council estimates the changes would result in fares increasing by around 10 per cent.

There would also be a change to the council's late-night tariff.

At present, the more expensive rate can be charged from 11pm.

Under the proposed changes, that would move back to midnight.

The final decision will be made by Rother District Council's cabinet on Monday.