RMT demands safe and viable taxi ranks in Neath

Currently, taxi drivers are required to park in permanent ranks in Neath and elsewhere, but the Neath town centre redevelopment has meant that when work begins, taxi drivers will lose their current ranks on Wind Street. RMT Taxi Driver members are opposed to Neath Port Talbot Councils interim plans which they believe do not provide a safe and commercially viable rank in the town centre.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said;
“This is clearly an issue which needs to be resolved with urgency. In a matter of days, taxis currently using ranks on Wind Street will be asked to move to make way for the new town centre development in Neath.

“Our members rejected a suggestion from Neath Port Talbot to use Orchard Street. Drivers believe it is unsafe, something which the council also accepted after a petition.

“However, the council cabinet have rejected perfectly sensible alternative locations such as outside the Gwyn Hall. Our drivers believe this offers a safer option than others whilst still providing a commercially viable and relatively central location for drivers and a convenient location for passengers.

“RMT are very happy to talk to the council to find a way forward, but it cannot wait, and their suggestions must be properly considered. RMT urges the council, particularly the cabinet, to listen to the concerns of drivers and the public and work with the drivers to find a suitable location and consider carefully their preferred suggestions when the issues are next considered by cabinet.

“A solution must be found quickly before taxis lose their base and the public are confused over taxi services in Neath.”

Ends.