Sheffield black cab plans include diesel surcharge and fare rises of up to 8.6%

Sheffield’s black cab fares could rise under city council proposals covering vehicle capacity and diesel costs, with a committee vote scheduled for Friday 6 November.

Hackney carriages with room for up to four passengers would face a proposed fare increase of 6%, while vehicles designed for five or more passengers would see an 8.6% rise, according to The Star.

The plans also include a 20p surcharge on each journey should diesel exceed £2.20 a litre. If the price passed £2.60 a litre, the proposed extra charge would be £1 per journey.

The Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee will consider the proposals. Approval would be followed by public consultation, with a final decision coming afterwards.

Average diesel prices rose from 151.9p a litre in December 2023 to 191.3p in September 2026, before exceeding 200p for the first time in October 2026. The council says the proposals seek to simplify fares and improve transparency while acknowledging drivers’ rising costs.

The Sheffield Taxi Trade Association has asked the council to consider alternatives: shortening the interval between 20p meter increments, increasing night-time fares and adding charges for passengers travelling with dogs.

Source: The Star