London Bridge brought to a standstill as taxi protests continue into fourth day

via taxi-point https://ift.tt/2P7DMd2

London Bridge was again the focus as taxi protests continued into their fourth day.

Thursdays protest, which started at 4 pm and lasted for three hours was a well attended and well behaved affair, mirroring the previous three days of protest.

18 bus services were disrupted, whilst tue City of London had to, yet again, suspend the Bank Junction restrictions.

The continuing dispute centres around Transport for London restricting access to taxis at some locations, whilst allowing Buses and cycles free access.

Traditionally, where buses have had access, taxis have also been allowed, however the latest proposed restriction, the eastbound section of Tooley Street, at the junction with London Bridge has become a catalyst for furious cabbies to say "enough is enough." As a result, pressure group, the Independent Taxi Alliance (ITA) called for a series of demonstrations.

Whilst taxi drivers have branded Transport for Londons actions discriminatory, TfL have hit back, calling the action "unnecessary."

Ben Plowden, TfL’s director of strategy and network development, said :

“A consultation is currently underway on changes to Tooley Street to improve conditions for people walking and cycling, or traveling by public transport."

However, cabbies as well as trade organisations have expressed deep concerns at how the consultations information is collated, specifically when an individual identifies their profession.

A final day of protest on London Bridge is scheduled for today at 4 pm

November 30, 2018 at 05:22AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Steve Kenton THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT