London’s Potential PCO Licence Cap: What it Means for Professional Drivers

The ADCU (App Drivers and Couriers Union) has demanded that TfL introduce a limit on new PCO licences as the increasing number of PCO drivers in London is impacting the drivers’ daily earnings, contributing to traffic congestion, and compromising the environmental targets.

London has over 100,000 PCO drivers, and the number is increasing rapidly every year. With no cap on private hire licenses, the competition among drivers is intensifying and it is hard to earn a decent amount Zamir Dreni, the General Secretary of ADCU has warned that if appropriate action is not taken, many drivers will lose their livelihood. He says that many drivers are already forced to work long hours to earn a stable income. The rising competition will only make the situation worse.

Capping the licence numbers, on the other hand, will not only reduce the pressure on drivers but also help the authorities achieve environmental goals by reducing the number of vehicles operating in the sector.

Critics say that fewer vehicles will result in higher fares and longer wait times for passengers. However, others say that drivers will offer a better service if they are able to earn more by working less. Some also say that a cap could ease the pressure on London’s road infrastructure.

The calls for introducing a cap on PCO licenses have gathered pace as TfL prepares its Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan for 2025. If the request gets approval, it would mark a significant shift in the policy and will be seen as a serious step to bring stability in the sector.

Source:https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/what-would-a-private-hire-vehicle-cap-mean-for-passengers-and-drivers-in-london