TAXI drivers and businesses in Shropshire could be facing higher costs.

Shropshire Council is proposing to vary the statutory permissible fees chargeable for Hackney carriage, private hire vehicle and operator's licences, and driver's licences.

The proposed changes have gone out to consultation, with Shropshire Council saying that the changes will take effect on February 5, 2024, unless objection is made and not withdrawn.

The proposals would see costs rise across a number of areas for drivers, including driver's licences and licence renewals, although some costs including driver's knowledge tests and badge replacements would stay the same.

Cost rises are also proposed for vehicles and operators, including for vehicle licence transfers and changes to licence holder details, although again some costs will not change, including fare card replacements, plate replacements, and private hire door signs.

You can view the changes by visiting: www.shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved/taxi-fees-consultation-2024/

Any objections should be made in writing to Licensing, Shropshire Council, Shirehall, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury SY2 6ND or by e-mail to taxis@shropshire.gov.uk by midnight on February 4.

Objections will be considered by the council’s strategic licensing committee on the March 13 and the fees, with or without modification, will come into force on April 1.