Taxi Drivers Urge Lewes Council To Review Fares And Freeze Licence Fee Rises

Campaigners are calling on Lewes District Council to review taxi fares and freeze planned increases to taxi licensing fees.

A petition, signed by more than 210 people so far, has been launched in response to proposed fee rises for the next financial year.

It also asks the council to review what drivers can charge passengers, saying the current fare structure is outdated.

Lead petitioner Sean Macleod, a former district councillor, says the taxi trade is being ignored and is already struggling with rising costs.

He said drivers faced a 66 per cent increase in some fees last year and could see further rises of up to 50 per cent this year, calling it “a kick in the teeth” for the trade.

The petition argues taxi fares have failed to keep pace with fuel, insurance, maintenance and living costs.

It also calls for an independent audit of the council’s licensing finances and an “Unmet Needs Survey” to assess whether there are enough taxis operating in the district.

Lewes District Council says it values the taxi trade and that licensing fees are reviewed annually to ensure the service remains sustainable and meets legal requirements.

A spokesperson said the proposed fees for 2025–26 are still under consultation and no final decision has been made.

They added that rising operating costs and inflation have driven the proposals, including extra costs linked to the council becoming responsible for taxi CCTV data.

Most taxi licensing fees are proposed to rise by around 10 per cent, although some driver licence renewal fees could increase by 20 per cent.

Other charges, such as vehicle livery and replacement door signs, could rise by more than 50 per cent.

The proposals are due to be considered by the council’s Licensing Committee on Thursday evening (January 22).

If approved, they would then go to full council for a final decision.