These folks seem a bit feral
Probably nothing particularly out of the ordinary anywhere. But because it's right beside the rank it's hardly a surprise drivers are put out by it all...
Brighton cabbies report antisocial behaviour at taxi rank
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/2607266 ... taxi-rank/
Cabbies have reported antisocial behaviour, people urinating and drunkenness at a taxi rank shelter.
Andrew Peters, representative for Brighton and Hove Cab Trade Association, said taxi drivers have reported the issue to police. The city council is also stepping in to help.
Mr Peters said he has received reports of “drunkenness, loud music and an unleashed dog running around, as well as people opening taxi doors for customers and asking them for money".
He added that it is causing a “nuisance” for drivers, with members of the public “not wanting to wait where there is music and antisocial behaviour”.
“It’s interfering with the work of taxi drivers,” he said.
Mr Peters believes the issue has got worse following the removal of seating in New Road, which was described as a “hot spot” for antisocial behaviour. But the city council has not seen firm evidence of that.
Crime rates have dropped significantly in the New Road area since the removal, according to police statistics.
Councillor Jacob Allen, cabinet member for public realm, said he was “spending more time dealing with issues in New Road than any other road in Brighton and Hove” prior to the removal.
There were already problems at East Street before seats were removed from New Road but Mr Peters feels it has become worse with drinkers in the taxi rank shelter seating area causing issues.
“Our contact at licensing, Alex Evans, has gone out of his way to contact the correct departments to try and resolve this.
“However, unfortunately drivers are thinking the only way to resolve this is for the taxi shelter seating to be removed.”
The Argus understands that the number of people at the shelter has reduced in the past week, although around four to five people continue to sit there, according to taxi drivers.
Councillor Andrei Czolak, Cabinet Advisor for Community Safety at Brighton and Hove City Council, said: “Removing the benches from New Road was the right thing to do and has seen huge improvements in that area – something we know has been welcomed by businesses, residents and visitors.
“We are aware of recent instances of anti-social behaviour in East Street, but do not have any firm evidence this was directly linked to the removal of the benches in New Road.
“We’re pleased to say that efforts to address issues in and around the taxi rank in East Street appear to have had a positive impact on anti-social behaviour in that area. We will also be discussing the situation further at a joint action group with local partners this week to see if any additional steps are needed.
“We do regular engage with the local taxi trade and will, of course, listen to any concerns they may have and consider any suggestions they bring forward.”
Images: The Argus