Last week we reported that tourists arriving into Nottingham train station were unimpressed at the location of the taxi rank. We’re happy to report that, from next week onwards, things are set to change for the better.
Nottingham cabbies are said to be delighted after the council announced its decision to introduce a second, more accessible, taxi rank from Monday, as part of the station’s £50million revamp.
Meeting Public Demand
After ongoing discussions between Nottingham City Council, East Midlands Trains and the Nottingham Taxi Drivers Association (NTDA) it was decided that there should be two taxi ranks available in order to meet public demand and to cater for the recent pedestrianisation of Station Street.
Councillor, Nick McDonald, said: “Once work has been completed next month, the enhanced look and feel of Station Street will undoubtedly provide a much more fitting gateway into the city from Nottingham Station.”
“We’ve been listening to taxi drivers and speaking to East Midlands Trains about how best to provide easier access to taxis.”
Accessible & Convenient
Passengers arriving into Nottingham will now have the option of leaving the station via both exits to grab a cab and Council officials say that these new arrangements will make taxi ranks much more convenient and accessible for wheelchair users and anyone with limited mobility.
Councillor McDonald, commented: “We’ve been listening to taxi drivers and speaking to East Midlands Trains about how best to provide easier access to taxis for those who don’t or can’t use the central bridge exit, which can only be accessed by stairs. Providing access to taxis for travellers with limited mobility is of course a major issue and something we’ve got to get right.
“We’ve now agreed to put a taxi rank in the drop off/pick up point just outside the station entrance on Queens Road. We hope this will provide an acceptable solution to taxi drivers and their passenger. We’ll be continually monitoring the situation too.
“I’d like to thank the public for their patience. Regeneration of this nature is always disruptive but that disruption is necessary to improve the south gateways into the city.”
Signage
General Manager for East Midlands Trains, Sarah Turner, added: “We’re pleased to have worked with Nottingham City Council on the introduction of the second taxi rank at the station which will be far more easily accessible for customers who aren’t able to use the central bridge.
“Our next priority will be to introduce clearer, simpler signage throughout the station to direct people to the closest and easiest taxi rank.”