ANGRY taxi drivers protested on the steps of Wycombe District Council this week following plans to introduce more cabs in the town.

A survey carried out for the council last year into the demand for taxis concluded two more were needed to satisfy demand in the Wycombe area.

The survey found delays at all four taxi ranks in the town centre -- the railway station, Frogmoor, the High Street and Newland Street -- and attributed this to a shortfall in supply.

But Peter Kavanagh, taxi section officer for the Transport & General Workers Union, who represents drivers in Wycombe, said extra competition would harm existing businesses

He told the Bucks Free Press: "Two extra plates will seriously affect the ability to make a living."

Pointing to the survey, he added: "Ninety-seven per cent of passengers waited less than four minutes.

"The statistics don't point to more taxis. They point to an excellent service."

He went on: "We are also fighting against deregulation and are currently in talks with the bus service."

The council's planning, environment and transportation committee agreed it should meet again when views from taxi operators had been included in the consultation.

Members also agreed that passenger taxi rank facilities should be investigated and taxi and private hire sharing should be promoted.

Cllr Mike Huddy (Lib Dem, Princes Risborough) told the meeting on Monday: "I have met with the trade twice discussing this. I think there are one or two possible recommendations. A black-style cab will enhance the fleet.

"Also I think we are aware that the drivers have been threatened of late and that style cab will give them that bit more extra security and safety.

"Hopefully the county will allow them to use the bus lanes. We accept the consultation was appalling. The trade was done injustice entirely."

Cllr Sebert Graham (Lab, Bowerdean and Daws Hill) said: "Deregulation will put a lot of people out of jobs. I am in great sympathy with the taxi service."

There are currently 42 taxis operating in the Wycombe district under an owner/driver basis and 171 private hire vehicles.

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