Taxi show heralds new regulations in Newport

Taxis licensed to be hailed on the street in Newport will have to be wheelchair accessible from April 1 as new regulations come into force.

Newport City Council is introducing the new regulations to ensure all passengers in the district can easily hail any cab when they need one without worrying about whether or not they can get into it.

Ahead of the switch, cabbies are set to attend a special show dedicated to showcasing both new and used purpose-built taxis, which are wheelchair accessible and have a host of other features for users with disabilities.

The event is being hosted by Mann & Overton, official dealer for LTI Vehicles, manufacturer of the London-style taxis.

Gary Thomas, Mann & Overton representative for the Newport area, said the event was a chance for drivers to test the range of purpose-built taxis available to them.

“The changes will affect all Hackney carriage drivers and ensure that the Newport taxi fleet is accessible to everyone,” said Gary.

“We want drivers to come along and see what the options are for either a new or used purpose-built, fully-wheelchair-accessible taxi.

“We are fully supportive of the council’s changes to the licensing regulations and believe it is a significant step in the right direction to ensuring the quality and safety of the taxi fleet.

“By choosing a purpose-built, London-style taxi, drivers are demonstrating their commitment to the comfort and safety of their passengers.”

The taxi show is being held at the McDonalds in Malpas Road, Newport, from 10am to 4pm on February 27 and 28, and March 1. The venue has been chosen for its central location.

A range of new and used vehicles will be available to test drive, including the new TX4 London cab, launched by LTI Vehicles in October last year and the fastest selling taxi ever.

Also there will be used TXII and TX1 cabs, the predecessors of the TX4, all instantly recognisable as the iconic “black” cab.

Prices on used cabs range from as little as £75 per week.

All taxi drivers are welcome to attend the events.