Sandwell taxi drivers hit out at bus lane cameras
Sandwell's first bus lane cameras will be installed to capture motorists using lanes illegally through West Bromwich.
But private hire taxi drivers have hit out the move saying it causes 'discrimination' between cab drivers as Hackney Carriages will still be allowed to use the lane.
Council officials want to enforce a ban on the stretch of New Street outside Sandwell College's Central Sixth campus with CCTV cameras.
Around 3,000 cars have been using New Street, past Sandwell College's Central Sixth campus.
Sandwell Council wants to enforce a ban already in place and say the cameras will deter motorists flouting the ban.
The new proposal will see only Hackney Carriages allowed through the zone on New Street, in a move cabinet member for highways and environment councillor Maria Crompton has described as 'best for public safety'.
Congestion
She said: "I believe that Hackney Carriages entering the bus only street can do so without significantly increasing the number of cars that add to the congestion, which isn't the case for private hire vehicles.
"There are fewer Hackney Carriages in comparison, and private hire vehicles have the advantage of a pre-booking system where they can pick up customers from any point, rather than use the taxi ranks assigned for Hackney Carriages.
"Pedestrian use of the town is also increasing following the opening of the Sixth Form College, the letting of new retail units in New Square and the completed refurbishment of Queens Square.
"The safety of the public has been the main factor in this decision, so vehicle traffic should only be permitted to travel through the bus and cycle only lane if the benefits to the public outweigh the many disadvantages of additional through traffic. Permitting Hackney Carriages only is the absolute right decision."
Andrew Cashmore, aged 46, has been involved in the taxi industry for 18 years and owner of Andy's Cars West Bromwich for the last seven.
"He said: "It's complete discrimination against private hire firms, there's no way around it.
"They say this is for the benefit of the public, but they are the ones that are going to be directly affected by this decision.
"Through no fault of our own taxi fairs will increase for customers, which could long term have a huge detrimental affect and drive custom away.
"Dudley taxis are allowed to use bus lanes. All this is going to is increase fairs, journey times and make it more difficult for the customer. I will be appealing this decision."
