THE COST of taking a taxi in Basingstoke and Deane could rise due to a 'substantial increase' in operating costs for drivers, says the council.

The proposals, which are currently under public consultation, would see the fare for Hackney Carriages across the borough raised to a 'more standardized unit of 1/10th a mile'.

The current fare starts at £4 to flag a taxi, with the price to travel one mile at £6 and the price to travel ten miles at £22.20.

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The costs are calculated at 1/12th of a mile, which is 'impossible for anyone to work out what a journey might cost' according to regulatory services manager, Robert Draper.

He added: "Overall there is an increase of income for the driver, but hopefully in a way that does not significantly penalise the users of the Hackney Carriage service."

The proposals, which were raised at the council's Licensing Committee on Monday, November 4, would see the flag rate increase to £4.20 with the first mile charged at £6.20.

Each mile travelled would see an increase of £2, with the price of ten miles set at £24.20.

The committee agreed to the changes, however, the proposals will be put to residents for a 14-day consultation period before fares are updated.

If there are no objections, then the changes will be considered by the cabinet, however, if residents object, the proposals will be reconsidered by the committee.