Decision details

This report provides details of two new taxi ranks proposed for introduction in the Taxi Rank Programme for 2017/18.

The report sets out officer’s responses to the objections received in respect of the two proposed taxi ranks and seeks a decision from the Cabinet Member for Transport and Sustainability.

(i) Having considered the responses to the consultation, decisions on the two ranks be made as follows:

Arundel Gate.  Taking into consideration the objections from SYPTE and the 02 Academy and the officer observations, the Cabinet Member for Transport and Sustainability overrules the objections to this rank.

In consideration of the possible use of this loading bay as a bus stop and the potential for conflict with vehicles servicing the 02 Academy, versus the demand for taxis at this location, that the loading bay be designated as a taxi rank, but with revised operating times of 12:00 midnight - 4:00am.  This is intended to reduce the potential for vehicle conflict, with buses and particularly service vehicles, but to address the demand for taxis during the busiest time.

West Street outside nos. 167 - 173.  Taking into consideration the objections from Primesite UK Ltd. and the officer observations, overrules the objections to this rank.

That the reasons set out in this report outweigh any unresolved objections and that those taxi ranks approved by the Cabinet Member for Transport and Sustainability be implemented and the Traffic Regulation Order TRO) be made in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984;

(ii) introduce associated traffic signing and lining; and

(iii) inform the objectors accordingly.

The proposed measures will provide taxi ranking facilities at locations, requested by representatives of the taxi trade, where there is perceived to be a large customer base.  This will, therefore, be of benefit to the public.

The two possible alternatives for the site on Arundel Gate were to abandon the proposal or amend the operating times.  Following consultation Transport Planning have taken the latter option and recommend moving the start time back from 9.00pm to 12.00 midnight. 

The only alternative for West Street, outside numbers 167 - 173, is to abandon the proposal.  Given the repeated demands from the taxi operators for a rank at this location, plus the general need for more ranks to be provided to meet the transport needs of the public, this is not considered to be an acceptable option.