We are requesting your help to address an urgent issue that impacts our community and the daily lives of many individuals who rely on private hire vehicles (PHVs) for their transportation needs. Currently, Hastings Private Hire vehicles are prohibited from travelling southbound on Havelock Road, which forces these vehicles to take longer, more costly routes. This not only increases expenses for passengers, especially those with limited budgets but also disproportionately affects the vulnerable members of our community.

We are calling for your support to petition East Sussex County Council for an immediate amendment to the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) that currently restricts southbound access on Havelock Road for Hastings Private Hire vehicles.

By signing this petition, you will be helping to:

1.      Create a Level Playing Field: The current exclusion of Private Hire Vehicles, while allowing Hackney Carriages access, has created an uneven playing field. Given that the Private Hire industry outnumbers the Hackney Carriage industry by 5 to 1, this restriction unfairly disadvantages the larger provider of services to the travelling public.

2.      Reduce Unnecessary Costs: The current restriction forces PHVs to take longer routes, leading to higher fares for passengers. This financial burden is particularly challenging for those with limited budgets.

3.      Improve Accessibility: Allowing PHVs to travel southbound on Havelock Road will enhance accessibility for everyone, particularly the elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable members of our community who depend on these services for their mobility.

4.      Enhance Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability: Amending the TRO will streamline routes for PHVs, making transport services more efficient and reliable for all users. When PHVs are forced to take longer, indirect routes to reach their destinations, it results in increased travel time, fuel consumption, and vehicle emissions. This inefficiency not only inconveniences passengers but also has a significant environmental impact. By allowing southbound access on Havelock Road, we can reduce unnecessary vehicle mileage, lower fuel usage, and decrease the carbon footprint associated with these trips. This change supports our broader goal of promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transportation within Hastings, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone.

The Private Hire industry is the backbone of local transport services, providing essential mobility to a vast number of residents and visitors. Restricting their access to Havelock Road has a direct and significant impact on the public and the environment.

We urge you to join us in advocating for this crucial change. Your signature can make a significant difference in ensuring fair, affordable, and accessible transportation for all residents and visitors of Hastings, while also supporting environmental sustainability.

Please sign our petition to support the amendment of the TRO and enable southbound access for Hastings Private Hire vehicles on Havelock Road.

Thank you for your support.