(1) That the variation to the current Fare table shown at Annex 2 to the report be approved.

(2) That the recommended variation to the current Fare table shown at Annex 2 to the report be subject to a statutory public consultation period of 14 days by way of public notice.

(3) That if no objection to the variation is made, or if all objections are withdrawn, the recommended Fare table shown at Annex 2 to the report will become effective on the date specified in the notice.

(4) That if any objections are made and not withdrawn, a further report will be made to the Executive Member for consideration of the objections.

To enable approval of the setting of taxis fares within the Borough under section 65 of the Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1976. The recommendation is being made as the Council accepts that there has been a cost of living and fuel cost increase which all impact on the cost of running a Hackney Carriage Vehicle and the driver being able to make a living from the profession. This increase will also enable the Council to maintain and support the provision of hackney carriages in Trafford. A period of consultation is essential to ensure the views of all potentially affected parties are sought before a decision is made.

Keep the existing fare. The potential consequence of this could be that the taxi trade would struggle to run a taxi service or maintain their vehicles because of the cost of living crisis, which could impact on the availability of taxis in Trafford. Or approve a higher increase than recommended. Or approve a lower fare increase than recommended. The potential consequence of a lower increase would be that this would not cover the trade costs meaning that a journey would not be cost effective for them to work. The potential consequence of a higher increase would mean that the public would not be able to afford to use the trade services, resulting in a loss of business.