Taxi scheme to be extended

Taxi scheme to be extended

A late night taxi marshal scheme which is in the midst of a six-month trial looks set to be made permanent if funding can be found

REBECCA GOUGH
05 January 2009 15:00



A late night taxi marshal scheme which is in the midst of a six-month trial looks set to be made permanent if funding can be found.

The aim of the scheme is to make it easier and safer for people to get home and has been operating since October in the Tombland area of Norwich.

Originally, the scheme received £14,000 of Home Office funding until March 31 this year.

Paul Wade, Norwich City Council community safety officer, said: “We're now in the process of applying for additional funds and grants from various sources including the Home Office.

“I'm hopeful we can secure further funding so the scheme can be adopted on a more permanent basis.”

The scheme proved particularly popular over the Christmas and New Year period, with a total of 1,242 customers served and 621 taxis dispatched.

Mr Wade added: “The taxi marshal scheme has been a great success.

“Since it got underway it has provided a safe passage home for thousands of people who have enjoyed the city's night time economy.”