Taxi driver concern over Uber 'saturation'

Taxi drivers have expressed concern about an increase in Uber drivers from elsewhere "over-saturating" the local market.

Some cabbies in Darlington said they have resorted to travelling to other towns to pick up work.

They have urged the council to prioritise locals and cap the number of drivers from elsewhere.

Darlington Borough Council said customers could make their own decisions but it would continue to monitor the situation. Uber has been approached for comment.

It is claimed Newcastle-based drivers are capitalising on Uber recently receiving a licence to operate in Darlington.

One driver, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service more and more were coming into the town every week.

He said: "All these Newcastle drivers are taking over and we're getting no chance at all."

Dozens of other local drivers and companies share his worries, he said, adding that he currently gets more jobs in Durham City despite living in Darlington.

A spokesperson for the Labour-led council said: "Taxi customers can decide for themselves where they choose to place their business, based on factors that are most important to them – such as convenience, availability and value for money.

"We will of course monitor the situation and licensing will continue to work with the other local authorities to check their drivers/vehicles are appropriately licensed."

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has contacted Uber for a comment, but has not had a response to requests.

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