Taxi drivers in Lichfield are preparing to launch a go-slow protest in response to concerns about how new pedestrianisation measures could affect their ability to work in the city centre.
According to a report by Lichfield Live, drivers say the proposed changes risk restricting vehicle access, making it harder to pick up and drop off passengers efficiently. The protest will involve taxis deliberately driving slowly through affected areas to highlight the potential disruption and raise awareness of their concerns. The drivers argue that reduced access could impact livelihoods, passenger convenience, and services for elderly or disabled customers who rely heavily on taxis.
The article explains that while pedestrianisation is often introduced to improve safety and air quality, local taxi drivers feel they have not been properly consulted about how the changes will work in practice. They are calling for clearer exemptions or access arrangements that allow taxis to continue serving the city centre without unnecessary delays.
DM Commentary
Pedestrianisation schemes are becoming more common across UK towns and cities, but stories like this show how easily taxi drivers can be overlooked in the planning process. Taxis are not just another vehicle type — they provide an essential service, particularly for people with mobility issues, late-night travellers, and those without access to public transport.
A go-slow protest is usually a sign that drivers feel they’ve run out of options. In many cases, better consultation and clearly defined taxi access routes could prevent these disputes altogether. If councils want pedestrian-friendly centres and reliable transport links, taxi and private hire drivers need to be part of the conversation from the start.
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