Wolverhampton taxi drivers oppose plans for more cabs

The Wolverhampton Taxi Owners Association said about 160 drivers had taken part in the protest

Taxi drivers in Wolverhampton have taken part in a go-slow protest over plans that could see the number of cabs in the city increase.

Parminder Sekhon, from Wolverhampton Taxi Owners Association, said: "The point we're trying to make is this is what will happen if they issue more licences."

Wolverhampton City Council said people had told them there were often not enough taxis available.

The plans are part of a consultation.

Nick Edwards, the council's assistant director for regeneration, said: "The proposals form one element of a major piece of work to explore options for how we can enhance the city centre.

"But I must stress these are only proposals at this stage."

'First of many'

The council's consultation ends on 14 September.

Mr Sekhon said: "This is not something we wanted to do but we've got no choice, the council wants to flood our streets with more taxis.

"There's no need for any more and the point we're trying to make is this is what will happen if they issue more licences.

"We've wanted to raise public awareness which we have done but this could be the first of many protests."

He added there were 170 taxis in Wolverhampton and about 160 drivers had taken part in the protest.

The go-slow started at 10:00 and last until about 13:30 BST, said Mr Sekhon.