“Nightmare” for taxi drivers as Airport overflow rank closes during summer season

TAXI drivers have described the closure of Jersey Airport’s overflow rank during the busy summer season as a “nightmare” and “complete mayhem”. 

The taxi overflow area – known as the ‘bull ring’ – is currently closed as it is being used to house construction materials for the departure lounge renovation.

Jersey Taxi Drivers’ Association secretary Mick Tostevin said that the closure of the area – which could hold around 30 cars – has halved capacity, even after a sign has been taken down to increase the space at the rank.

Mr Tostevin also voiced concerns from taxi drivers about the short notice of the changes.

“It was put on us at the last minute with little time to adjust,” he said.

A plan for waiting taxis to use the 30 minutes of free parking in the main Airport car park was rejected by drivers, because they would be unable to see the front of the queue and know when to move up the rank.

Mr Tostevin explained: “[Taxi drivers] do not know how many people will need a taxi, so you need as many taxis on standby as possible.”

He urged Islanders to pre-book taxis, allowing drivers to use the short-stay car park in front of the arrivals building as they know when they will be needed.

One taxi driver, who wished to remain anonymous, said the current situation at the Airport was a “nightmare” and “complete mayhem”. 

Ryde founder and director Charlie Petulla acknowledged that the Airport renovation work was necessary and “happening with a longer-term view for the arrival experience on the Island”. 

But he questioned why the disruption was scheduled during the summer, as the Island’s tourism peaks.

A spokesperson from Ports of Jersey said: “As our departure lounge transformation progresses, deliveries and associated activity has now significantly increased.

“To maintain safety at all times, the taxi overflow area will be temporarily closed, with alternative waiting areas available. The drop-off and taxi pick-up area is unchanged.

“This is the closest location to the construction site, minimising risks by reducing the movement of vehicles and materials across other parts of the airport.

“We will continue to work closely with the taxi industry, our priority is to maintain a safe and reliable service for passengers, while managing this major project.”