WEST Belfast’s black taxis will become operational again from next week with a series of new measures in place to protect both drivers and passengers.
As well as asking all customers to wear protective face coverings, taxis will only carry four passengers instead of the standard six.
In addition, perspex screens have been installed in the front and in the rear of all taxis along with plastic curtains to safely separate passengers and payment will now be made into a hatch while boarding the cab.
Brian Barr, spokesman for Belfast Taxis CIC, which operates the west and north Belfast black cabs, said a "comprehensive review" of the taxi operation had been undertaken and "safety measures to protect our passengers and drivers" had been put into place.
This will also include a phased return with initial operating hours between 7am-7pm Monday to Saturday and 12-7pm on Sunday.
"Sanitiser stations have been installed in all taxis and multiple signage giving guidance to ensure passenger and driver safety are in place throughout each taxi, and we are asking passengers to wear protective face coverings," he said.
The organisation will also be introducing a new private booking service where you can pre-book a black taxi for personal use.
"This will be ideal for people attending hospital and medical appointments and all taxis are wheelchair accessible.
"Since 1971 the West Belfast Black Taxis have been in operation. We were born out of a demand for a local public transport system and we have been in operation ever since.
"We are a not for profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable transport for the community and to providing employment.
"The Covid-19 pandemic has been the first time that the black taxis have had a break in operating in almost 50 years.
"Now we are ready to get back onto our routes and get back to serving the community in safety."
Private bookings can be made by calling 02890 315777.
