London’s Accessible Transport Crisis: Decline in Black Cabs Puts Mobility at Risk
A sharp decline in wheelchair-accessible black cabs in London has raised alarm among disability advocates ahead of a key London Assembly meeting.
The Disability Power 100, led by Founding Editor Dom Hyams, urges London Assembly members to confront Mayor Sadiq Khan and Transport for London (TfL) Commissioner Andy Lord about the dramatic reduction in accessible black cabs. The upcoming London Assembly transport meeting on September 5th is a critical opportunity to address this growing crisis.
Key Issues:
- 37% Decline in Accessible Black Cabs: Since 2011, the number of wheelchair-accessible black cabs in London has decreased by 37%, resulting in just 1.7 cabs per 1,000 Londoners.
- Limited Alternatives: While the number of private hire vehicles (PHVs) has increased by 57%, only 0.4% of them are wheelchair-accessible, leaving few transport options for those with mobility challenges.
- Impact on Independence: People with disabilities in London take twice as many taxi trips as those without disabilities. The reduction in accessible black cabs directly threatens their ability to move freely and maintain independence.
Dom Hyams, who also serves as a disability consultant, emphasizes, “Accessible transport in London is not just a convenience; it is critical to inclusion and independence. The decline in black cabs limits our freedom and hinders the city’s recovery.”
Call to Action
Dom is calling for urgent intervention to reverse the decline in accessible black cabs. He urges London Assembly members to raise this issue at the upcoming meeting and seek solutions from the Mayor and TfL Commissioner.
Sam Pooke, Senior Policy Manager at FREENOW UK, echoes this sentiment, stating, “The decline in the number of black cab drivers is a serious issue, having a significant impact on the inclusion and accessibility of London.”
Why This Matters Now:
- Accessibility Challenges Across London: Only 33% of London Underground stations have step-free access, and even fewer provide level boarding for wheelchair users.
- Dependence on Taxis for Mobility: In 2022, disabled individuals took an average of 17 taxi trips per person per year, more than double the trips taken by those without mobility issues.
- A Call for Comprehensive Solutions: Advocates are urging TfL to address the decline in taxi supply as part of their new Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Action Plan.
About Dom Hyams and Disability Power100
Dom Hyams, who was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and uses a powered wheelchair, is the Founding Editor of the Disability Power100. He is committed to raising awareness about accessibility and representation issues, and currently serves as Head of Strategy at Purple Goat, a disability-led marketing agency.
Next Steps:
The London Assembly meeting on September 5th will be a pivotal moment for advocates to demand concrete actions to protect accessible transport options. As London continues to recover from the cost-of-living crisis, ensuring inclusive mobility options is crucial for all Londoners and visitors to the nation’s capital.
For more information:
Contact FREENOW at freenow@eulogy.co.uk.