A Brentwood taxi driver has slammed proposed changes to the rank system outside the town's station, labelling them as ridiculous.

But this view is not shared by everyone as taxi firm Treble Twenty believes it will be advantageous to drivers and customers.

The changes, which are in the consultation stage, involve abolishing the parking areas in The Parade, alongside Brentwood Station, and replacing it with a double rank where taxis will line up two cars wide waiting for customers.

Independent driver, Terry Andrews, 61, of Clarence Road, Pilgrims Hatch, said: "I can see this causing a number of problems and friction between drivers if it goes through.

He said: "I think this will carry real risks to pedestrian and driver safety.

"What happens if you are waiting on the inside line and you get a call to go to a customer who is waiting? Others drivers will have to shunt and shuffle around to let you out and I can see this causing a great deal of friction between the drivers."

But director of Treble Twenty, Steve Smith, disagrees and says the new scheme will be of benefit to everyone.

He said: "At the moment we have a problem with the queue of taxis being so great that the line of cars spills out of the rank and onto Kings Road which also causes difficulties for other motorists and pedestrians."

A Brentwood Council spokesman said several drivers had been consulted about the possible changes and the response had been positive but they invited anyone who would like their opinions known to write to them.

Published Wednesday, April 30, 2003

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