TAXI fares in the Taunton Deane and West Somerset areas could go up within a fortnight.

Local taxi firms have lobbied Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) for an increase in the maximum rates due to the rapidly rising cost of fuel.

Fares were increased back in February but cab firms have been faced with a 26.5 per cent rise in the cost of petrol and a 28.1per cent hike in diesel prices, according to the RAC.

An SWT spokesperson said: "This has given rise to concerns that operating a taxi could cease to be viable for many, which would negatively impact members of the public who rely on hackney carriage services."

Under proposals being considered by the council, the initial £2.40 distance charge would be imposed for the first 390 yards, down from the first 425 yards.

And the subsequent 20p distance charge for every 145 yards would now apply to 135 yards.

The existing fare cap and the proposed changes do not apply to private hire vehicles.

A public consultation is being held to give people the chance to have their say on the proposed new rates.

If no one objects, the new fares will come into effect on Thursday, August 4.

Anyone wishing to object can do so on SWT's taxi fare increase proposal consultation webpage by Wednesday, August 3.

If there is opposition, SWT's executive councillors will consider their decision at a meeting on Wednesday, September 21.