A STRING of complaints against minicab and taxi drivers in Tandridge are outlined in a new report.
A BETTER DEAL FOR PASSENGERS: Craig McIntosh
The anonymous grievances range from alleged overcharging and verbal abuse to complaints about a “bad attitude” and a cab rank phone which was repeatedly left unanswered.
There were nineteen complaints recorded in the period between December 2013 and January this year, according to Tandridge District Council.
Among them were:
A passenger booked a taxi to Gatwick Airport but it did not turn up, causing him to miss his flight.
Two complaints about overcharging.
A licensed driver alleging bullying and racist behaviour by a colleague.
Paul Barton, the council’s chief community services officer, said: “Some of these complaints have involved Surrey Police, and the information sharing protocol allows for the exchange of data and information between the police and the council.
“Issues can now be reported online so the complaints process is available 24/7.”
The stringent checks on drivers are outlined in the local authority’s 36-page document Guidance for Proprietors and Drivers of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles.
Mr Barton said: “The document is produced in consultation with Surrey Police to ensure public safety is maintained for people travelling in licensed vehicles.
“Licensed vehicles must display an external identification plate and drivers must wear an identification badge to clearly identify themselves to the public.”
Applicants for a new licence must show evidence of their identity and address, provide references and prove they are medically fit.
Every three years drivers are vetted via fresh DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks.
Craig McIntosh, a part-time cabbie in Tandridge, led a protest by drivers three years ago against the council’s proposed fares increases.
He said: “I overhear one or two complaints from passengers, mainly about overcharging.
“But unless they have the driver’s badge number they can’t really take their complaint forward.
“Mr McIntosh said nowadays there is a surfeit of drivers plying for trade around Tandridge, which means a better service for the public but less business for each driver.
Read more: http://www.eastgrinsteadcourier.co.uk/
