TAXI fares could rise under new plans for Droitwich, Evesham, Pershore and other parts of Wychavon district.

The district licensing committee is to review the charges next Thursday, February 2.

If they are given the green light, a journey of 1,240 metres will cost £2.40 instead of £2.20 and 20p will be added every 200 metres instead of every 230 metres, or every 40 seconds instead of every minute. Fares for Christmas Eve, bank holidays, and Sundays will go up more.

The effect of the changes would mean a one-mile fare would increase from £2.40 to £2.80, and a two-mile ride from £3.80 to £4.40. The latter is more than the national average.

Ten miles, at standard daytime rates, will go from £15 to £17.40. This is £2 more than the same journey in Worcester, although it is £3 cheaper than in Malvern. Similarly, a one- mile journey will be 50p cheaper than Malvern and the same as in Worcester.

Parties of more than four people will have to pay 70p instead 50p more per passenger over that number. A spokesman for the local authority said: "Taxi fares should not be considered only in terms of vehicle running costs per mile or the cost of fuel, as the fare has to provide an income for the driver and cover vehicle replacement costs.

"It should also be remembered that the fare is per journey and up to four passengers can travel for no extra cost.

"The proposal does not include an increase for "soiling charges", which remains at £50. This covers not only the cleaning cost, but loss of income while the vehicle is off the road."

The changes will be published in a public notice and objections will be invited. If none is received within 14 days then the new charges will come into effect on Monday, March 6.