Proposal for additional taxi rank in a 'crammed' town centre is welcomed by drivers

Jul 12 2012 by Camilla Goodman, Buckinghamshire Examiner

A REVIEW into whether there is space for an additional taxi rank in a crammed town centre has been welcomed by cabbies.

Bucks County Council is looking into the possibility of creating a second rank in Chesham, which drivers say is desperately needed.

The current taxi parking area is in The Broadway, and drivers say it is not large enough to accommodate all the towns taxis.

Chiltern District Drivers Association, which represents cab and private hire drivers in the district, says it has been begging for extra spaces for years.

Association chairman Masud Ahmed said: "There's a desperate need for an increased amount of space for taxis and Im glad the council is looking into this issue.

"I sincerely hope there's a positive outcome for the sake of the community because, at the end of the day, taxi drivers serve the community.

One of our concerns is parking enforcement but, at the same time, youve got to keep an eye on the bigger picture.

They dont want people to park in the wrong areas, but theyve allocated smaller areas than there are taxis. If were to provide a good quality service for the public, the council needs to help us.

Association secretary Jim Tilbury said: Another rank is definitely needed. There are so many cabs down there trying to get on, it can get quite crammed.

Weve been after it for years, so its good that they're reviewing it.

The association says there is also a need for additional taxi ranks in Amersham Old Town and Chalfont St Giles.

The owner of Little Sicily restaurant in The Broadway, Sandro Mazzola, commented: I think at the moment there's enough space for the taxis, although it can get chaotic at times and look untidy."

I dont think theres space for a bigger rank in The Broadway but perhaps there is in Station Road.

They would be out of the way there and The Broadway would look more tidy.

* Do you think Chesham needs another taxi rank? Email bucksnews@trinitysouth.co.uk.