"I don't need a major pay increase," says an Isle of Wight taxi driver railing against a controversial price hike.

An Isle of Wight charity has also objected to the plans, fearing for the people it represents.

It comes as the Isle of Wight Council is looking to approve a 'significant rise' in taxi fees — which could see some fares go up by 50 per cent.

The council had consulted with the Island's taxi trade and the majority were in favour of the increase, due to rising running costs.

The issue was first discussed in March, when the proposed prices were put out for consultation. They would have been automatically approved if there had been no objections.

However, five representations were received, including one from a taxi driver who broke ranks and objected, citing fears for a knock-on impact on pubs and restaurants, and possibly leading to more drink driving.

The taxi driver of four years believed the Island's taxi fares were already quite overpriced and said an increase would lead to a significant drop in business, especially at night.

Local charity, Sight for Wight, has also submitted the 'strongest objections' to "what must be an unprecedented increase and therefore not reasonable".

The charity said it understood petrol prices are rising but the increases 'simply cannot be justified based on that'.

It said its members, who are all blind and partially sighted, rely on taxis, many on a daily basis and with 16 per cent of its members of working age in employment, funds are not available to sustain such a hike in prices.

The Isle of Wight Council's cabinet is now being asked to approve the increase but is advised by officers to make sure fares are proportionate and affordable while still ensuring the taxi operators have a viable business.

  • You can read the officers' report HERE.

Officers have also previously warned about a lack of public support.

If cabinet members approve the increase, the news prices will start on June 1.

Isle of Wight County Press: The proposed fees Cabinet are asked to approve.The proposed fees Cabinet are asked to approve.