URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1576

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee’s approval was sought to increase the Hackney Carraige vehicle soiling charge from £50 to a maximum of £100 following a request from members of the Trade.   Members were advised that the vehicle soiling charge (which was a supplementary charge) had not been increased since its introduction in 2006, it was out of step with other West Surrey authorities, with whom the Council would be combining in April 2027, and did not reflect the true cost or inconvenience to the Trade of rectifying such incidents.   Following the request, and a previous general expression of support by the Committee, Officers had consulted the Trade, and received 4 responses, all of which were in support.  Officers had benchmarked with other Surrey authorities and TFL, as well as taken into account inflation, and the cost of local hand car wash operators and professional valet services.  The Committee agreed that £100 was fair, reasonable, and proportionate.   Officers had also taken the opportunity to update the wording of the policy to be more specific in the definition of and consequences of vehicle soiling.   The Committee noted the timescale for advertising, subsequent consultation, and if no objections were received that the change would take effect in April 2026.   Resolved that –   the Hackney Carriage vehicle soiling charge be increased from £50 to £100 and the description of the charge is amended from ‘discretionary soiling charge’ to ‘soiling the carriage interior leaving it unfit for immediate subsequent hiring (not shown on the meter)’

Date of Decision: March 18, 2026