Uber is set to secure an official voice in Aberdeen’s taxi industry debates, as the city council considers reshaping the consultation group responsible for advising on local licensing and policy.
The move comes after Uber raised concerns about being represented by rival operator Rainbow City Taxis, rather than having direct input into discussions.
Under the new proposals, major players in the city’s taxi and private hire trade would each be granted individual representation. These include Rainbow City Taxis, Aberdeen Taxis, Chariots Private Hire, ComCab, Leadryde, Aberdeen International Airport – and now Uber.
Uber pushes back on Street Knowledge Test
According to council documents, the new structure would give Uber a “platform to formally plead for such changes,” including its long-standing opposition to Aberdeen’s Street Knowledge Test. The ride-hailing giant has repeatedly called for the requirement to be scrapped, claiming it is outdated and unnecessary in the age of GPS.
A spokesperson for Uber said the company was “keen to work collaboratively with the council and other stakeholders to improve the private hire sector in Aberdeen,” adding that the proposal marked an “important step forward” in meeting strong passenger demand for “safe, affordable and easy options.”
Concerns from local taxi firms
However, some local operators have voiced concerns. A joint statement from several Aberdeen taxi firms warned that the consultation group was meant to represent drivers rather than booking offices or businesses.
“The trade is about drivers,” the statement read. “This group was never intended to be about anyone directly representing their own business. Booking offices cannot and should not be able to dictate licensing policy, which could be detrimental to drivers.”
Rainbow City Taxis boss Russell McLeod, who has previously chaired the group, has also cautioned that Uber must “play by the same rules” as other operators if it wishes to be part of Aberdeen’s taxi landscape.
The council is expected to review and vote on the proposed changes in the coming weeks.
Source: Press & Journal
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