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The maximum fares that taxi firms can charge in Caerphilly County Borough could increase.

A public consultation has been launched by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s licensing team to gather views on potential increases.

The rate is reviewed every four years, and was last reviewed in 2022.

The hackney carriage tariff sets the maximum fare that can be charged for journeys in licensed taxis. The current tariff will remains in place while the consultation is underway.

Currently, the maximum a taxi firm can charge for one to four passengers, between 7am and 7pm Monday to Friday, is £3.50 for the first mile, 10p for every 1/22nd of a mile after that.

Between 7pm and 7am Monday to Friday, it rises to £4 for the first mile.

For bank holidays, or for vehicles carrying five to eight passengers, the rate for the first mile is currently set at £5.25, with a 15p maximum rate for each 1/24th of a mile afterwards.

For one to four passengers hiring between 7pm on Christmas Eve and 7am on December 27, the first mile rises to £6.80, and 20p for every additional 1/22nd of a mile. This rate also applies between 7pm on New Year’s Eve and 7am on January 2.

When this rises to five to eight passengers, the festive rates increase to £10 for the first mile, and 30p per 1/22nd of a mile after that.

The purpose of the consultation, according to the council, is to gather feedback from taxi firms, residents, and businesses, with that feedback being used to decide what changes should be made to the rates.

Lee Morgan, council licensing manager, said: “We want to ensure that any decision on taxi fares reflects a fair balance between the needs of drivers, passengers, and local businesses.

“This consultation is an important opportunity for everyone to have their say before any changes are considered.”

Visit the council’s website to take part in the consultation. Alternatively, paper copies of the consultation can also be requested directly from the council by emailing Morgal16@caerphilly.gov.uk or calling 01443 866750.