TAXI drivers in Torfaen will not face a five per cent hike in licence fees this year.

The increase in hackney carriage and private hire vehicle licences was due to come into effect at the beginning of April but was put on hold following the strength of opposition.

A 132-named petition by drivers and operators was handed in to the council by Audrey Baber, of Gwent Cars, Cwmbran together with a letter calling on the council to not increase the fees.

The proposed increase would have seen a driving licence and DVLA check rise from £97 to £105, with the cost of vehicle licences rising by £12 from £248 to £260.

Operator licences for five or fewer vehicles were to remain the same at £285 and for more than five at £516.

Last year, fees were increased by 2.5 percent but are reviewed every year and increased by the rate of inflation.

The council’s income from licensing costs is £192,158.70 and it spends £301,768.10, which means it has to find £109,609.40 to make up the shortfall.

In his report Steve Bendell, the council’s licensing team leader, said the decision not to increase the fees would have a detrimental effect on the council’s budget but at last week’s meeting of Torfaen councillors, members voted against the increase.

Mrs Baber previously raised concerns that the current financial climate is making it difficult for taxi firms to survive, and strongly opposed the proposals.

Speaking on behalf of Torfaen hackney and private hire drivers after the decision, Mrs Baber said: “We are very pleased with the result of the council.”