Taxi drivers in Aberdeen will not seek an increase to standard cab fares, union representatives said yesterday.
The Unite union has said it will not pursue a rise in current tariffs, citing the recent fall in fuel prices as a factor in the decision.
Fares are reviewed every 18 months to monitor any changes in costs for operators.
The possible rise in fares is separate to the £1 increase proposed for non-airport taxis to compensate for the new drop off charge introduced at Aberdeen International Airport.
Both matters will be discussed at the meeting of the council’s taxi consultation group on February 19, with a decision due to be made at the council’s next licensing committee meeting.
Stevie Robertson, taxi representative for the Unite union in Aberdeen, said: “Fuel has dropped off in price and we would rather encourage customers then discourage, it is not the right time.
“It’s almost four years since we have had a fare increase. We’re trying to encourage people to use taxis rather than discourage them.”
Tariffs are currently £2.40 for the first 2,850ft and 20p for every subsequent 541.5ft.
Scott Carle – convener of the local authority’s taxi consultation group and licensing committee – said the fares review was carried out every 18 months “to see if there’s been significant movement in the operating costs” for taxi drivers.
Unite regional officer, Tommy Campbell, added: “I can confirm our union members will not be asking for a fare increase.”