Brighton and Hove taxi drivers are pressing for a hackney fare rise after fuel, insurance and “blue book” compliance costs outpaced the meter.
Brighton and Hove News / LDR say the city slipped from 14th to joint 38th in national fare rankings and the trade wants a return toward 14th, arguing a 50/50 driver needs about £30/hour gross to hit the £13.45 living wage after fuel. Proposals keep the £3 start but clock 30p every 160 yards (from 176) with 36-second waiting (from 54); night from £4 (9pm–midnight / Sunday evenings) and late night £5 midnight–6am. Officers told cabinet the package stays comparable with Lewes and Worthing and night premiums remain modest versus 1.5× elsewhere. Cabinet was due 17 September; public consultation follows any approval. Private hire often follows hackney rates commercially.