A £1.37 million revamp of Nottingham city centre is underway and is causing quite a stir amongst the hackney taxi trade.
The project, which started in September last year, involves pedestrianising Station Street at the entrance to Nottingham train station and also includes the introduction of a one-way system between London Road and Trent Street.
Relocation of a Hackney Taxi Rank
However, whilst the work is underway, and although not permanently agreed, the taxi rank at the busy train station has been relocated. A change that hasn’t been well received by local cabbies.
They are are concerned about the safety of disabled passengers who will now have to cross a busy road in order to get a cab.
Secretary of the Nottingham Licensed Taxi Owners and Drivers Association, Nasser Ahmed, said: “If you think about it logically, this isn’t going to work as a permanent solution. You get 60 to 100 people coming off a train from London, they’re all going to have to cross over to get a taxi. It’s not safe, particularly for disabled passengers – they will struggle to get across the road.”
There are issues for drivers too. Nasser continues: “At the moment, if you exit from Trent Street, the whole city is open to you but if we leave from London Road we’ll often be heading in the wrong direction.”
Making Life Easier
Nottingham City Council has assured the drivers and members of the public that sufficient signage will be installed to ensure all visitors and residents of the city are made aware of the new traffic flow.
Councillor Nick McDonald, of Nottingham City Council, said that although the changes being made were pretty major, it should make life easier for everyone once everything has settled down.
He commented: “We’re reaching the final stages of this project now and the areas that are almost finished are looking great.
“Pedestrians are already finding it easier and more pleasant to walk through this area and the changes to the traffic flow will improve safety as well.
“Along with the restoration of historic shop fronts in the Carrington Street area, this will really transform this part of the city and create a fantastic gateway from the railway station.”