Saturday 12 May 2007

Durham City's pedicabs...

Bumped into Stephen Murphy outside Clayport Library at lunchtime whilst doing a bit of shopping. Stephen is the guy who is launching Durham's first pedicab service (that's a bike taxi). I know Stephen from work. We chatted for a while about his plans and the process of getting a hackney carriage licence. The City Council is treating the pedicabs as proper taxis so there is a lot of paperwork that needs sorting out.

Local council are supposed to be encouraging cycling as a healthy, non-polluting, sustainable and enjoyable means of transport. Bike taxis will also add to the attractions of Durham as a tourist spot. Whilst I can see the need for safety checks, in my view any other bureaucracy must be kept to an absolute minimum.

Stephen is looking for other drivers - I'm going to give this some serious consideration. It would be a great way of training as well as having a chance to show off my adopted home city to tourists and visitors. I'd make some money as well, although probably not very much. But I could use that to fund some new bike kit.... or a trip somewhere...

Stephen has a great idea there and one that is good for the city too. I really hope it takes off for him.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Great bit of work by Stephen - he should be applauded for his efforts in promoting healthy communities.

No wonder Durham is the best place to live, work and bring up a family!!!

Anonymous said...

had the pleasure at the weekend of a ride in the pedicabs in Durham, absolutely brilliant!! a definite must for any visitor.
Stephen had also used them, beautifully decorated for his and Lisa's wedding they looked absolutely great (as did the bride and groom !!) We wish Stephen lots of luck in his new venture it certainly is the way to sight see the City.