Taxi drivers have been warned they face steep increases in the fees they pay to operate in Welwyn Hatfield.

The borough council, which regulates the trade, proposes to raise its fees for vehicle and driver licences by about 20 per cent.

For example, a one-year Hackney carriage licence will rise from £125 to £150.

The proposed fee changes will be put to the cabinet after a 8-day consultation period that started on February 10.

They will apply to all taxis, both Hackney carriages and private hire vehicles.

A council spokeswoman told the WHT: “We have not increased our charges since 2006 and it is needed so we can continue to cover our costs.

“All money raised from the licence fee is invested directly back into running the service, including rigorous driver and vehicle checks and procedures, to ensure the public is protected and has full confidence in our drivers.”