Rochford taxi fares to increase as vulnerable passengers hit

Rochford District Council has agreed to increases fares across the area.

For journeys taken between 6am to 9pm Monday to Saturday from October 1, the rates for the first 440 yards -or the first two minutes – is to increase from £4 to £4.50.

Then a rate of 20p per 170 yards kicks in until the fare reaches £9.80. That rate has remained unchanged.

After £9.80 is reached a rate of 20p per 134 yards kicks in. That rate has also remained unchanged. The changes represent the first increases Rochford taxi drivers have had since May 2024.

But there are concerns about the level of increases being levied on shorter journeys – which the council licensing committee heard could impact people such as pensioners or those with mobility issues more.

Licensing committee member Councillor Angela Sutton said: “I’ve just got some concerns about the fairness for the residents as well.

"The 50p is being added straight on the start of the meter. So that takes the minimum fare from £4 to £4.50 for the first 440 yards. That’s an immediate 12.5 per cent increase right at the start.”

The consumer price index increased 3.4 per cent from May 2024 to May 2025 and 2.8 per cent from May 2025 to May 2026.

She added: “So my concern is actually who this is going to hit the hardest. If someone takes a longer five minute trip across the district, a 50p increase is barely a three per cent bump. But if an elderly pensioner or a resident with mobility issues takes a short half-mile trip to the doctor, the chemist, the food shops, then they’re taking an immediate 12.5 per cent hit.

“So is there a real risk for the drivers themselves here as well? Are they going to stop being used? If this increase is meant to help the drivers with the rising fuel prices, why have we not adjusted the running distance rate per mile instead of dumping the entire 50p onto the starting price?”

Committee chairperson Councillor Tina Hughes said: “Having been a taxi driver for 25 years, I understand the challenges faced by the trade and the important role it plays in serving our residents and communities.

“I surrendered my taxi license before becoming a councillor, but my experience has given me a good understanding of the pressure faced by drivers.

"With the continuing cost of the living increases and the fact that theirs have not been increased since 2024, I believe that a 50p increase into the flag fare is fair for both drivers and the customers.

“Taxi drivers must meet the cost of training, licensing, car payments, machines, vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance while also earning a living. We need to support our taxi trade just as we recognise the need for people to earn a reasonable income.”