I, Councillor Simon Ball, on behalf of residents, licensed taxi drivers, and regular users of public transport in Rotherham, respectfully present this petition to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.
Currently, bus lanes in Rotherham are reserved exclusively for buses and, in some cases, cyclists, leaving taxis to navigate congested general traffic. I urge RMBC to introduce a policy allowing licensed taxis full access to these lanes during operational hours, subject to clear signage and enforcement to prevent misuse. This could be implemented via Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs), similar to those used elsewhere in South Yorkshire.
Evidence from Neighbouring Authorities
Rotherham should not lag behind its South Yorkshire neighbours in
supporting vital public transport services. A review of policies in
nearby councils reveals a clear trend towards inclusion:
• Sheffield City Council permits taxis to use bus lanes and
gates, recognising them as essential public transport alongside
buses, cycles, and authorised vehicles. This policy extends to both
hackney carriages and private hire vehicles, fostering smoother
traffic flow in a comparable urban setting.
• Doncaster Council explicitly allows “permitted
taxis” to use bus lanes where indicated by signage, alongside
buses and cycles, during restricted hours. This exemption is
enforced to ensure compliance while prioritising mobility for taxi
users.
• Barnsley Council, by contrast, restricts bus lanes to buses
and occasionally cyclists, with no provision for taxis despite
long-standing requests from the local trade dating back to at least
2013. This outdated approach highlights an opportunity for
Rotherham to lead regionally by adopting a more progressive
stance.
By granting access, RMBC would harmonise regulations across the Yorkshire and Humber region, reducing cross-border confusion for drivers and passengers alike.
Key Benefits of Allowing Taxi Access to Bus Lanes
Permitting licensed taxis into bus lanes would deliver tangible
advantages for Rotherham’s residents, economy, and
environment. These include:
1. Faster and More Reliable Journeys: Taxis could bypass
congestion, shortening travel times during peak hours, crucial for
commuters, shift workers, and those attending medical appointments
for example at Rotherham Hospital.
2. Enhanced Accessibility for Vulnerable Groups: Elderly residents,
disabled passengers, and families with young children rely heavily
on taxis as a flexible alternative to buses. Quicker access would
improve independence and reduce isolation, aligning with
RMBC’s inclusive mobility goals.
3. Reduced Overall Congestion and Emissions: By keeping taxis
moving, fewer vehicles would idle in general lanes, easing pressure
on the road network and lowering carbon emissions through more
efficient routing supporting Rotherham’s net-zero
ambitions.
4. Economic Boost for the Local Taxi Trade: Rotherham’s
licensed drivers provide an essential service, transporting
numerous passenger trips annually. Streamlined operations could
lower operational costs, potentially stabilising or reducing fares
while sustaining jobs in a vital sector.
These benefits are evidenced in councils like Sheffield, where taxi access has contributed to smoother public transport integration without increasing bus delays.
Call to Action
I call upon RMBC to convene a public consultation within the next
three months to explore this policy change, engaging taxi
representatives, bus operators, and residents. A pilot scheme on
high-traffic corridors would allow data-driven evaluation, ensuring
any implementation is evidence-based and reversible if needed.
Rotherham deserves a modern transport system that values all forms of public mobility. By acting now, RMBC can enhance connectivity, support local businesses, and position our borough as a forward-thinking leader in South Yorkshire.
I urge you to respond positively to this petition and commit to
progress.
This petition runs from 07/10/2025 to 07/01/2026.
59 people have signed this petition.