Transport for London: Important Information for Taxi and Private Hire Drivers July 6, 2024

Important Licensing Changes for Taxi and Private Hire Drivers

The Transport for London (TfL) has implemented new licensing requirements effective July 1, 2024. These changes, aligned with the Department for Transport's Statutory Taxi and PHV Standards, aim to improve passenger safety in London. Taxi drivers, private hire drivers, vehicle owners, and operators can find detailed information and relevant guidance on the TfL website.

Public Toilets for Taxi and Private Hire Drivers

Recognizing the vital role taxi and private hire drivers play in keeping London moving 24/7, TfL maintains a list of publicly accessible toilet facilities across the city. These locations, including some at stations, are easily accessible and can be found on the TfL website.

Heads Up for Events Causing Traffic Disruptions

Be aware of several events happening in London this weekend that may cause traffic congestion. Here's a breakdown of some key events:

• BST Hyde Park: This music festival runs until July 14th, bringing large crowds and increased traffic around Hyde Park. Park Lane will be closed in both directions between Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner for 90 minutes each evening to assist with crowd movement.

• Wimbledon Tennis Championships: Expect heavy traffic and large crowds around Wimbledon until the Championships conclude on July 14th.

• Other Events: A variety of events are happening across London, including:

  • The Killers concert at the O2 Academy Brixton on July 4th and 5th.
  • Jimmy Carr performing at the O2 Arena on July 5th.
  • Hozier concert at Hackney Empire on July 7th.
  • AC/DC concert at Wembley Stadium on July 7th.
  • Soho House Festival at Gunnersbury Park on October 4th and 6th.
  • A festival event at Chiswick Park on July 4th.
  • A festival event at Crystal Palace Park from July 4th to 7th.
  • T20 cricket matches at The Oval on July 5th and 7th.
  • A music event at Finsbury Park from July 5th to 7th.
  • A food festival at Old Deer Park in Richmond on July 6th.
  • A community event on Heath Street in Hampstead on July 7th.
  • A cultural event at Southall Park on July 7th.

Road Closures and Lane Restrictions to be Aware Of

Several roadworks are planned across London, so be prepared for potential delays. Here are some of the notable ones:

• Millennium Way: Northbound closure between Edmund Halley Way and the O2 car park 1 access until Friday, July 5th at 8:00 PM.

• A12 Colchester Road: Expect lane restrictions until late September.

• A10 Kingsland High Street: Lane restrictions, closures, and temporary lights are in place until October 6th for the installation of new pedestrian and cycling crossing facilities. Expect delays and consider using alternative routes.

• Farringdon Street: Closed northbound between Ludgate Circus and Charterhouse Street due to major gas main replacement works until September. Significant delays are expected, especially on the diversion route. Buses will also be impacted.

• HS2 A40 Works: Reduced lanes on Western Avenue between Hanger Lane and Alperton Lane until late October. Plan ahead, use alternative routes, and check before you travel.

Taxi Rank Suspensions

Several taxi rank suspensions are in effect this weekend due to various reasons. To avoid disruptions to your journey, please be aware of the following closures:

• Rank 5758 Charing Cross Road: Closed from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday, until January 10, 2025 (second portion only suspended for a temporary bus stop).

• Rank 5410 Knightsbridge Green: Closed until Thursday, July 4th at 6:00 PM (whole rank suspended for carriageway granite setts/kerbs replacement due to a road closure).

• Rank 5619 Wimbledon Park Road (Southfields station): Closed until Sunday, July 14th (whole rank suspended for the AELTC Championship).

• Rank 5744 Gillingham Street: Closed until Friday, July 19th at 8:00 PM (whole rank suspended for water main installation with a road closure in place).

• Rank 5773 Grosvenor Garden/Hobart Place: Partially closed with 30 meters on Grosvenor Gardens and rolling 15 meters on Hobart Place suspended