Black Cabs to Return to Bank Junction in 18-Month Trial

Black cabs will once again be permitted to travel through Bank junction in central London as part of an 18-month trial, the City of London Corporation confirmed. The change, set to begin on 28 July, marks a significant shift from traffic restrictions introduced in 2017 after a fatal cycling incident and a series of injuries.

Currently, only buses and cyclists are allowed to pass through the junction between 7am and 7pm on weekdays. These restrictions were implemented following the death of 26-year-old cyclist Ying Tao in 2015, who was killed by a turning lorry. The tragedy led to widespread calls for safer infrastructure, including a petition signed by over 13,000 people.

Under the new trial, black cabs will be allowed to travel west to east while construction takes place on Leadenhall Street. Once the works are complete in October, east-to-west access will also be granted. Other traffic restrictions will remain, with private hire vehicles and non-exempt cars still prohibited during controlled hours.

City of London officials say the trial is designed to improve accessibility for people unable to walk, cycle, or use public transport, including older adults and those with disabilities. Councillors cited the strong safety record of licensed taxis and noted that a majority of the fleet is now made up of zero-emission vehicles.

Tom Sleigh, chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee, praised the junction’s recent improvements and emphasised that the impact of reintroducing taxis would be “carefully monitored.” He said black cabs have the potential to support those who rely on car-based mobility, particularly during off-peak or inaccessible transit times.

Simon Munk from the London Cycling Campaign welcomed news that black cabs would not be allowed to turn within the junction itself, calling it “very welcome” and a measure that goes a long way toward addressing safety concerns. However, he warned that the move still poses risks. “It will likely mean noise, congestion for buses, and a potentially more hostile environment for walking, wheeling, and cycling,” he said. “The evidence suggests that taxis and their users won’t benefit much, if at all. But the trial will allow us all to judge the scheme on its impacts at the end of the year.”

On the other side of the debate, Paul Brennan, chairman of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association, called the move “an important step towards ensuring the City of London is open and accessible.” He added, “Common sense has prevailed. This trial will demonstrate the importance of taxi access and benefit the immediate area and wider Square Mile.”

A final decision on whether to make the changes permanent will be made following the trial period and further assessment of their impact on safety, congestion, and accessibility.

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