Absolutely gorgeous Croatian 4nt break from £226pp incl. flights, hotel & breakfast

Fancy some time away from the kids, or maybe you just want a getaway without little ones running around? Well then the 5* Hotel Meliá Coral boasts oozes luxury from inside it's wellness centre with sauna and hot tubs to it's beachfront exterior. For 4 nights you'll be on a B&B basis in October where… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

GMB and Addison Lee latest to slam proposed changes to congestion charges by TfL

via taxi-point https://ift.tt/2KStDj0

The GMB union and private hire firm Addison Lee are the latest to slam TfL proposal to change London congestion charge scheme by removing exemption for private hire drivers.

The proposed changes are seen as another attack on the private hire trade, a trade that is on a race to the bottom with ever decreasing rates and increased overheads, says GMB LondonBoth groups have raised concerns over the new proposals from TfL, that would see changes to London’s congestion charge scheme, including the removal of private hire vehicle (PHV) exemption from the charge.An Integrated Impact Assessment from TfL stated that they are considering the proposal to remove the PHV exemption from 8 April 2019 onwards.PHVs which are designated as wheelchair accessible will continue to be exempt from the charge under the proposed changes.Simon Rush, GMB Professional Drivers Branch Secretary said:“We at the branch always suspected that TfL would bring out a consultation on removal of our congestion charge exemption, as yet another way to cover the shortfall of their income as central government has removed a large amount of funding.“This is yet another attack on the private hire trade, a trade that is on a race to the bottom with ever decreasing rates and increased overheads.“The driver, not the operators, will bear the brunt of the cost as the operator will not want to pass this cost on to the public.“It’s a restriction of trade, it's unfair to the trade, and it's discriminatory as it’s not been currently passed to London’s black taxi trade. We predict that in the future this is likely to be passed to the taxi trade.“We have told TfL that if we see such a consultation we will grind London to a halt. That time has now come!“We cannot allow our members and wider trade to fund an extra expense of up to £57.50 a week and if you include older pay, the so-called toxic charge of 12.50 a week, this will decimate the trade and leave the public vulnerable to touts and other illegal activity.”Steve Garelick, GMB Regional Officer said:“Despite constant explanations of why this is a tax on drivers, we believe the authorities intend to steam roller this legislation through at all costs.”

Andy Boland, Addison Lee Group’s CEO said: ‘This move suggests that London isn’t open. Removing the exemption for private hire vehicles is a revenue-raising measure thinly disguised as an environmental initiative which will have no impact on congestion and will do nothing for air quality.He added: ‘It will hit drivers and operators in the pocket at a time when the industry should be investing in electric vehicles and charging points to make a genuine impact on London’s environment.’

July 07, 2018 at 07:23AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Minicab driver takes a dump on Derby driveway

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

Caught short?! Not really news, but a bit of ‘cheeky’ humour! Private hire driver takes a sneaky poo in the middle of a road unaware he's being caught on camera. What was he thinking?!Don't watch while you're eating supper!

July 06, 2018 at 10:25PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

4* Design hotel in central Brussels from £26pppn - incl. sauna & gym access

We know you pirates are a stylish bunch, so when we saw some great rates for the Radisson RED in central Brussels we just had to share. This eco-conscious hotel takes inspiration from art, fashion and music. Guest rooms here have pop art on the walls and huge windows that overlook the city. Each room… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

London Assembly urge Sadiq Khan to use Emergency Powers to push through pedestrianisation of Oxford Street

via taxi-point https://ift.tt/2KRvN5H

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been urged by the London Assembly to consider using so-called "emergency powers" to push through the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street after Westminster Council decided to scrap the plans following a backlash from residents within the area had concerns regarding noise and pollution caused from diverted traffic. Members of the London Assembly agreed on Thursday 5, a motion calling on Khan to consider pushing forward with the project regardless. The motions comes under the Greater London Authority Act (GLA) 1999. Assembly member Caroline Russell has stressed her disappointment with the decision by Westminster council to deny the proposal, raising concerns of "clogged" traffic causing pollution which is making shopping an unpleasant experience. The motion within the Greater London Authority Act allows the Mayor of London to take over any road in London with the consent of the borough, or more importantly in this case, the government.

Lib Dem member Caroline Pidgeon believes Oxford Street would die as a global shopping destination if the plans to ban all vehicles were not to be approved. According to a report in City A.M, Sadiq Khan has warned Westminster council that if they can not come up with a suitable alternative he will be "mindful" of what funding he will issue to them for future projects. £8 million had already been invested in the abandoned project.

July 06, 2018 at 07:28PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Return flights to Hong Kong from £338 return - incl. bags

Frommer's calls Hong Kong a "feast for the senses". Upon arrival you'll be hit with many delicious smells, strange sounds and vivid colours but that's all part of the fun of this furious metropolis. Lose yourself to this fantastic city by getting super cheap flights starting from as little as £336 return. These Air China… Niamh_UK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Luxurious stay in Ireland's 'Leading spa resort' from £84pppn incl. breakfast - flights from £32

It's time to pop over the Irish sea Pirates, because this award winning spa hotel is worth the journey. The 4* Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is a stunning accommodation right on the beach looking out on to the Atlantic ocean. You will stay in a super plush room with a terrace and be treated… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Magical Mykonos late season holiday from £238pp - 3nts 4* hotel, breakfast & flights

Ahoy pirates, time for a bit of Mykonos, we have come across this great getaway with breakfast included each morning of your stay. The Mykonos holiday is for 3 nights but you can choose to stay longer if you wish - and why not! Holiday details Travel duration: 3 nights (longer stays possible) Example date:… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Wunder-bargains! Germany flights from £12rtn (Cologne, Berlin, Hamburg & more)

Pirates, get yourselves a late season treat with these bargain fares to Germany! We've spotted great prices on flights to Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne and more! The cheapest time to travel is early September, when temperatures are still great for a city break. We've added departures from London, Manchester and Bristol. Offer Details Cheap flights to… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

All aboard: Virgin Trains First Class seat sale from £17 one way

All aboard pirates! If you're looking to visit friends/ family or just fancy a great British staycation this August, Virgin Trains have launched a great sale on a number of their West Coast routes. Journeys between London and Birmingham start at just £17 each way - but what's more on a first class ticket you… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Early 2019 5nt cruise from Savona to Naples, Bari, Dubrovnik & Venice from £189pp incl. full board

Pirates, we are seeing cruises become more and more popular, so get it quick to grab them before everyone catches on and the prices hike up. This cruise departs early 2019, departs from Savona in Italy, visits Naples, Bari before heading to Dubrovnik in Croatia and then stopping in Venice. You can add your own… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

IWGB union says lifting congestion charge exemption for minicabs in London will punish precarious workers and give Uber a free pass

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

IWGB union says lifting congestion charge exemption for minicabs in London will punish precarious workers and give Uber a free pass

Transport for London today launched a public consultation on measures to reduce traffic and improve air quality in central London. The new proposals would see the exemption from the Congestion Charge for private hire vehicles removed and the introduction of a new Cleaner Vehicle Discount to replace the Ultra Low Emission Discount.It is proposed that these changes would take effect from 8 April 2019, and by ensuring that the emission standard for those receiving a full discount are tighter than the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), would help to further drive demand for the greenest vehicles.

However, James Farrar, Chair of the private hire drivers branch of the IWGB said: "Lifting the congestion charge exemption will punish some of the poorest and most exploited workers in London while Uber, Addison and their customers continue to get a free ride. Drivers will be forced to work longer hours to cover the additional cost which will worsen rather than ease congestion. The only way to reduce minicab congestion in London is to cap out of control licensing and the Mayor must agree a plan with central government to do so urgently."

July 06, 2018 at 02:18PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Last minute Mexico beach bargain from £681pp - incl. 7nts all inclusive, flights & transfers

Arriba pirates! Get yourselves out to the fabulous beaches of Mexico with this all inclusive deal from our Package Finder! You'll be staying at the Canto del Sol, located almost right on the caramel sands of Las Glorias Beach in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Flights are included, as well as luggage, transfers and ATOL… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Cuba 2 week all inclusive holiday from £772pp - hotel, flights, luggage & transfers

Ahoy mateys, if Cuba is on your bucket list then maybe this is the deal for you. Head to Cuba for a 2 week break for under £800 per person, which works out at under £60 per person per night! The holiday in Cuba departs in September (more dates available) and even better, you will… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Nice cabbies in protest against Uber

via taxi-point https://ift.tt/2lZ3m83

Taxi drivers in Nice took to the streets yesterday to protest against a partnership signed between the local town council and Uber.

The partnership with the Ligne d’Azur bus network will see annual pass holders able to get an Uber to, or from some tram stations as well as on bus routes which have finished operating.

The scheme will be running at a flat cost of €6 (£5.50) after 8pm.

Furious taxi drivers in the area are calling for the town council to have a rethink of the scheme, claiming that it constitutes unfair competition

July 06, 2018 at 12:04PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Cheap flights alert: Fly to Venice from only £19 return

Pirates, Venice is a must see destination and we can't believe how cheap these flights are, return flights for only £19 - wowsa! The flights to Venice depart from Bristol on a wide range of dates spanning September, grab them quick as at these prices they're sure to go fast. Check out our flight finder… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Changes proposed to Private Hire Congestion Charge exemptions to reduce traffic and improve air quality

via taxi-point https://ift.tt/2lX55KQ

Transport for London has today launched a public consultation on measures to reduce traffic and improve air quality in central London. The new proposals would see the exemption from the Congestion Charge for private hire vehicles (PHVs) removed and the introduction of a new Cleaner Vehicle Discount to replace the Ultra Low Emission Discount.It is proposed that these changes would take effect from 8 April 2019, and by ensuring that the emission standard for those receiving a full discount are tighter than the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), would help to further drive demand for the greenest vehicles.Since the Congestion Charge launched fifteen years ago, the number of vehicles entering the zone every day has decreased by around 30 per cent. However, over the same period, the number of different PHVs entering the zone in charging hours has gone from an expected 4,000 a day, to more than 18,000, with knock on impacts on air pollution and congestion in central London.

Alex Williams, TfL’s Director of City Planning, said: “If we are to clean up the capital’s toxic air and tackle congestion in central London, we need to have the appropriate incentives as well as the right interventions.“The Congestion Charge has had a real impact on improving London’s roads for all since it launched fifteen years ago. However, over that time the availability and standard of low-emission vehicles has greatly advanced and the number of private hire vehicles entering the zone during charging hours has rocketed. It is only right that we keep the discounts and exemptions for the scheme under review to make sure it continues to be effective.”Analysis carried out for TfL indicates that the removal of the PHV Congestion Charge exemption could reduce the number of individual PHVs entering central London by up to 45 per cent. Removing these vehicles, which often repeatedly circulate within the zone, could reduce congestion and improve journey times for bus passengers, while reducing emissions. It is proposed that the exemption would remain for wheelchair accessible PHVs, to support TfL’s commitment to make the capital an accessible city for all.The consultation seeks views on replacing the Ultra Low Emission Discount with a new phased Cleaner Vehicle Discount from 8 April 2019. The current Ultra Low Emission Discount applies to cars or vans that meet the Euro 5 standard for air quality, as well as emitting 75g/km or less of CO². The first phase of changes proposed would mean only zero-emission capable vehicles will not have to pay the Congestion Charge on environmental grounds. It is expected that, if the changes are made, around 10 per cent of the vehicles currently eligible will no longer receive a discount.To encourage the uptake of the cleanest vehicles and support the ambition in the Mayor’s Transport Strategy for zero-emission road transport by 2050, there will a further tightening of the Cleaner Vehicle Discount in October 2021, with only pure electric vehicles qualifying. Further consideration will be given to future incentives for the uptake of zero-emission vehicles after 2025, which, subject to consultation, could include a central London zero-emission zone.

Bridget Fox, Sustainable Transport Campaigner at Campaign for Better Transport, said: "The Congestion Charge plays a vital role in cutting unnecessary traffic, keeping London moving and helping clean up our dirty air. It's right that TfL is keeping the Congestion Charge under review and integrating it with other clean air measures. We hope Londoners will take this opportunity to speak up for healthier streets.

July 06, 2018 at 11:30AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

August departures to Crete from £285pp - 7nts 3* hotel, breakfast, flights, luggage & transfers

Pirates, we are always keeping our eye out for the last minute bargains this summer and we have found this little gem of a holiday to Crete in Greece. The holiday departs in August and there are a choice of dates and departure airports. Breakfast is included each morning of your stay. Holiday details Travel… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Quirky north Italy break: 4nts B&B in arty hotel & flights from £187pp - near Lake Garda & Verona

Don't let your summer end as soon as the 31st August rolls around, give yourself something to look forward to with a late season trip to northern Italy. Along with one of the quirkiest hotels we think we've ever seen, flights and breakfast are included in this deal, all for less than £190pp! Holiday details:… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Amsterdam flights from £33rtn - several UK departures

Pirates, treat yourselves to a autumn break in one of the most fun cities in Europe! Our Flights Finder is offering some great prices on flights in September - when the weather is still perfect for wandering those canals! We've spotted cheap options from London, Belfast, Bristol, Edinburgh, Manchester and Liverpool. To find some great… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT