TAXI drivers in Furness are hoping to raise their prices for the first time in four years.

Hackney carriage fares could go up if Barrow Borough Council’s licensing committee approves an application by a group of traders.

At the moment, a normal fare from 7am to midnight is £2 for the first 896 metres and 20p for each subsequent 178 metres, with waiting time charged at 10p every 30 seconds.

But under one proposal from the drivers, the first 896 metres would cost £2.40, while a second proposal would see it costing £3 for the first 896 metres, 30p for each further 178 metres and 20p for a 30 second wait.

The drivers say that their application is in line with recent increases proposed by drivers registered with South Lakeland District Council.