Listening to traders on taxis

East Gippsland Shire Council last week met with Service Street businesses on how to best support community access to taxis and the modern use of taxi services.

Council recently committed to consulting on a proposed relocation of the taxi rank from its current location in Nicholson Street to Service Street, minimising direct interface with shopfronts. A decision has not been made.  

Council met with most Service Street traders who operate near the proposed site last week, hearing their thoughts on a relocated taxi rank.

Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said feedback from businesses and taxi operators will inform Council’s consideration of the available options.

“We thank the business operators for their time in sharing their thoughts and their intent to find a positive solution. Further updates will be provided as engagement continues,” Ms Weigall said.

There are a range of ways taxi services can be supported beyond a single central taxi rank. Bairnsdale already has a taxi rank at the train station, while some medical centres and supermarkets have taxi call buttons that enable customers to arrange pick-up from those locations.

Taxi ranks can also play an important role as rendezvous points for pre-booked services, providing certainty that a taxi can stop safely, and passengers can access the vehicle conveniently. This is particularly important for older people and people with disability.

The chamber of commerce and a community petition had requested the taxi rank be relocated from its current location at the eastern end of the mall. The taxi rank will continue to operate at the eastern end of the mall until a decision is reached on a preferred alternative.

Nicholson Street Mall works

Works to improve safety, amenity and functionality of the Nicholson Street Mall will start soon. Short-term works will focus on the:

• Removal of the public toilet and kiosk, including associated electrical, CCTV and service works. CTTV will remain in the mall.
• Removal of taxi rank shelter in Nicholson Street (eastern end of the mall) when a decision is reached on a preferred alternative.
• Removal of redundant bins and tables.
• Some minor safety improvements and maintenance of remaining infrastructure.

Works will be completed by local contractors and Council staff. Subject to contractor availability, demolition works could commence in early November and be completed before Christmas 2026.

Related media releases

• Works to start on Mall changes
• Shared zone a Mall option

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