Cambridge studies rickshaw 'taxis'

ROS WYNNE-JONES

Cambridge city council will today decide whether to pilot a rickshaw scheme as a solution to the city's congestion and pollution problems.

The scheme, to be examined today by the council's environment committee, would mean rickshaws licensed as "omnibuses" would be used as taxis and for tourist trips on a trial basis for one year. A similar operation launches in Oxford on 16 April and tours of York by rickshaw are also available.

At least four companies, including the Oxford Rickshaw Company and Cambridge Recycling, a local cycle shop, will compete to run the scheme if councillors pass the motion.

Erica Steinhauer, managing director and "chief rickshaw wallah" of the Oxford company said her designers had now perfected "the Rolls Royce of rickshaws". The model has hydraulic brakes and 21 gears and is half the weight of its Indian counterpart. The 7ft frame has been extended for extra comfort and, in the winter, the ride comes with blanket and hot water bottle.

Cambridge Recycling is going for authenticity by importing steel Indian rickshaws with canvas tops, vinyl seats and a couple of cushions for comfort.

But there are drawbacks to the scheme, Cambridge council's environment officer, Roger Coey, admitted. "The police have some reservations about the idea on safety grounds, mainly that the slow speed of the rickshaws could lead to frustration from other drivers or even road rage. There is also concern that passengers could be trapped in traffic fumes or that the rickshaws would lead to congestion and so increase traffic fumes."

But Mr Coey is recommending the scheme because "it is a novel idea, it's fun, there are companies who want to run the scheme, it may be suitable for elderly and disabled people, it's environmentally friendly and it will create jobs".