Taxi Driver Online

Licensed Cabbies called to Shoreditch’s Marshalled Taxi Rank to help keep Shoreditch safer.

Hackney Council, the Police and Shoreditch bars* have clubbed together for a month-long campaign to encourage both licensed cabbies and punters to Shoreditch’s marshalled taxi rank - close to the 333 Club, Fri-Sat Nights, 10pm-3am.

The rank, which opened in winter 2009 and is run by TFL, now attracts an average of 120 cabs and around 230 passengers on weekend nights. But Hackney Council would like to urge more licensed cab drivers to the rank to offer lone women, who are out in Shoreditch, a safe ride home.

During the month of April, black cab drivers, who stop at the rank**, will be offered a free air freshener, and the chance to enjoy a free brew and use of the facilities at one of two taxi-friendly Shoreditch bars – The Old Blue Last and The Barley Mow pub - from 10pm until 1am on Fridays and Saturday nights after Easter.

Lucy Palmer, Manager of the Barley Mow pub, said: “I’m offering tea and a wee for licensed cabbies because I know my customers benefit from taking a safe cab home rather than a lift with a random driver. Shoreditch’s licensed cab drivers are crucial for helping us to drive the message home to drinkers that it’s worth the walk to the rank and not worth the risk of getting into an unlicensed vehicle.”

A further 20-plus clubs and pubs in Shoreditch** are also supporting the safety campaign by displaying posters promoting the marshalled taxi rank in Ladies’ loos. Doormen at nearby bars will also hand out business cards to customers and remind them of where to find the marshalled cab rank.

The four marshalls who work at the Shoreditch rank are also working London cab drivers, who understand the needs of cabbies as well as customers.

Tony Ellis, Operational Manager of Shoreditch’s marshalled taxi rank said: “We urge licensed cabbies to give the marshalled rank a chance. It’s a great location and if you come, we’ll get you the customers – it’s a safe bet for everyone."

Steve Douglas, Hackney Council Corporate Director for Neighbourhoods and Regeneration said: “All the marshalls at the Shoreditch rank are experienced working cab drivers. They’re great communicators who understand the needs of drivers as well as customers. Black cab drivers can trust the marshalls to find them customers and to check that those passengers are in a fit state to get in the cab.”

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