The City of London Corporation has voted to allow taxis to access Bank Junction for a trial period expected to begin in Spring 2025. 

The decision, made by the Court of Common Council, the City Corporation's premier decision-making body, follows months of advocacy by the City of London Chamber and others. 

By opening the Junction to black cabs, the City of London Chamber believes that safety and convenience will be guaranteed to all those who visit this area. This initiative will also benefit people with disabilities, as all taxis are required to carry assistance dogs free of charge and are 100% wheelchair accessible. 

Moreover, this change supports the City’s Net Zero target, given that nearly all black cabs are electric vehicles (EVs). 

Allowing black cabs into the junction would then strengthen the Square Mile’s status as destination city, aligning with the City of London Corporation’s strategic goals. 

During the trial, taxi access to Bank Junction will be permitted while other traffic, including private hire vehicles, remains restricted between 7.00am and 7.00pm, Monday to Friday. The impact on traffic, safety, and access will be closely monitored, and a public consultation will be conducted. 

In the vote, 57% of the Court of Common Council supported reopening the junction to taxis, with 21% favouring the current restrictions, which were introduced in 2017 to limit the junction to cyclists and buses. 

Final approval of the trial will come from Transport for London, followed by a vote at the City Corporation’s Streets and Walkways Sub Committee to decide if the changes will become permanent or revert to the current arrangements. 

The City of London Chamber views this as a significant result, hoping it leads to a permanent change in Bank Junction’s restrictions, enhancing transportation links in and out of the City. 

Alderman Prem Goyal OBE, Committee Chair of the City of London Chamber, commented:

"The decision by the Court of Common Council to trial black cabs at Bank Junction is a crucial step towards making the Square Mile more accessible. We are proud to have advocated for this change. We are confident that, if Transport for London approves the trial, it will result in improved transportation for Londoners and visitors, further enhancing the City of London’s appeal."