Cabbies 'absolutely fuming' as Uber comes to town

Concerns have been raised that smaller taxi firms could be driven out of business

Taxi drivers in Tunbridge Wells have said they feel "betrayed" after the local council agreed to give Uber a one-year licence to operate in the town.

"This has really upset the apple cart," said taxi driver of 22 years Toni Conlon. "I'm frightened for my future. It's already very tough."

Clayton Berry, owner of Cleggy's Taxi, added that "loads of cabbies are absolutely fuming," suggesting many smaller firms would not be able to compete with the "goliath".

A spokesperson for TWBC said Uber applied for a licence in the same way as any other operator and went through the full licensing application process, which included an assessment against council policies.

An Uber spokesperson said the ride-hailing service will offer "passengers safe, affordable and easy options to get where they need to go".

"Improving local transport services will help the local economies, as well as providing new earning opportunities for local drivers," they added.

Uber has not said when it will start operating in Tunbridge Wells

Ms Conlon said she felt "betrayed" by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) as, according to her, they had always said they would not let Uber operate in the area.

Members of the public in the town told the BBC the arrival of Uber would be a "good thing" as it would give people more travel options.

In December, TWBC increased the standard fares taxis were allowed to charge, making it one of the most expensive places in Kent to get a cab, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Uber's license will include Tunbridge Wells, Paddock Wood, Southborough and surrounding villages.

It has not confirmed exactly when it will start operating in the area, though Uber has said it will soon start looking for drivers.