Taxi driver Imran Siddique calls for more spaces on rank
A TAXI driver is calling for more spaces to be created on the cab rank in Stamford.
Imran Siddique has made the call following last week’s announcement that police would be reminding drivers from Monday this week that taxis are only allowed to park on the south side of Broad Street between 10.30pm and 4am from Wednesdays to Saturdays.
Mr Siddique, who has been driving for Silver Cabs for about 10 months, said there are too many taxis in the town and not enough rank spaces.
He said: “There are about 60 to 100 taxis working in the Broad Street area and only about 10 to 12 spaces for us.”
Taxi drivers who continue to block parking spaces will receive a fine for obstruction. Stamford Neighbourhood Policing Team received complaints from motorists and business owners in Broad Street that taxi drivers are regularly blocking the parking spaces.
But Mr Siddique said taxi drivers go out of their way to help the community, rather than cause problems. He has been driving taxis in the town for about six years and said: “If someone needs a space, we always move.”
Police spokesman James Newall said: “We have taken this driver’s concerns on board but it will not deter us from enforcement action. We would remind taxi drivers to park in the designated ranking area.”
Mr Siddique wants the problem to be resolved, rather than fines being dished out.
He said: “More spaces should be provided for us, then this wouldn’t be a problem in the town.”
Kevin Brumfield, area highways manager at Lincolnshire County Council, said spaces available for taxis in the town have been increased over the years.
He said: “Unfortunately there is no additional space available to offer, without shoppers losing their free parking spaces.”
A spokesman for South Kesteven District Council, which is responsible for issuing taxi licences, said they are working with the county council and the drivers to look at how more spaces can be made available on Friday, which is market day.
She added: “We will be meeting with the drivers in early November to discuss the situation.”
source: http://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/l ... _1_3174117
