Newham Council plans to reduce Taxicard scheme

Melissa York, Reporter Friday, August 31, 2012
8:00 AM

Newham Council are looking to dramatically reduce travel through the Taxicard scheme due to transport funding cuts.

The London-wide programme subsidises door-to-door journeys in licensed taxis and private hire vehicles for disabled people and those who have difficulty travelling on public transport.

As demand has risen for the service, Transport for London (TfL) have announced that Government funding caps have left them unable to pay for any growth of the scheme, leaving local authorities to foot the bill.

Newham Council will now review the Taxicard scheme to change the way it supports those eligible for subsidised travel with proposals that could see the maximum number of Taxicard journeys reduced gradually over a three year period from 522 per person per year to 104.

After a three month public consultation, comments and findings will be presented to the council and a final recommendation will be presented to the Mayor and cabinet for consideration.

Residents are encouraged to learn more and comment on the proposals by visiting www.newham.gov.uk/taxicardconsultation to complete a questionnaire or call 0800 082 2202 for a paper copy.

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