City's taxi fares could rise by 25% under plans

Exeter will have the most expensive two-mile fare level in Devon if the increases are implemented

A consultation has been launched on increasing taxi fares in a Devon city by about 25%.

People are being asked for their views on the rises in Exeter, which could see the fares going up for the first time in three years and potentially coming into effect by Christmas.

If the changes go ahead, Exeter would have the most expensive two-mile fare level in Devon and would move into the national top 10, with a two-mile journey costing between £9.50 and £13.55.

Councillor Ruth Williams said: "The drivers provide a really important service, and it is very expensive for them to provide it." The consultation ends on 20 November.

The two-mile fare in Exeter is currently between £7.60 and £12.30, depending on the date and the time of day, with night-time journeys and occasions like Christmas being the most expensive, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Fares elsewhere in Devon for the same journey vary from £8.69 in east Devon and £6.80 in mid Devon.

Councillor Peter Holland said: "They are ambassadors for our great city.

"They are often the first people that folk meet when they come into our city. They go the extra mile."