TAXI fares in Bournemouth could rise next year under plans put forward by drivers.

Kevin Holmes, chairman of the Bournemouth Taxi Trade Association, has requested a two per cent increase to the rates charged by Hackney carriages from April.

If approved by the council, the proposed fare changes would see the charge for the first mile of a journey increased by 11p to £4.69 with subsequent miles rising by 14p to £2.37.

Booking fees would also rise slightly under the tariff amendments it has suggested.

The request will be considered by members of the council’s licensing committee on Thursday (February 14).

Any changes would come into force from April 1.