MIRANDA town centre may soon get its own secure taxi rank staffed by qualified security guards at weekends at the Westfield Miranda entertainment precinct.
Sutherland Shire mayor Kent Johns has written to the Transport Minister about the proposal.
The proposal also has the support of the Miranda Liquor and Gaming Accord and NSW Police.
It is proposed that the taxi rank would be staffed by qualified security officers on weekend evenings between 11pm and 4am ensuring people waiting for taxis after an evening out can do so safely.
Councillor Johns said the renovation of Westfield Miranda has created a new entertainment precinct including the new cinema and restaurant complex soon to be opened.
"There is a significant increase in the number of people seeking transport in the area later in the evening on weekends," he said.
"I want to ensure that with the increased number of entertainment venues in the area and therefore increased patronage that we put in place the necessary safeguards to ensure people are safe and are able to get a taxi home.
"There are two established secure taxi ranks in the shire located at Cronulla and Sutherland CBDs.
"These taxi ranks are well utilised and there is no doubt this is because of the presence of qualified security officers.
"The local police have commented they have noticed a reduction of incidents at taxi ranks staffed by security officers.
"I am certain that the Miranda secure taxi rank will have similar positive outcomes for local residents who may be negatively impacted by intoxicated patrons walking home from licensedvenues.
"It will also alleviate the frustrations of patrons who already find it difficult to access safe public transport in Miranda late at night, and minimise opportunities for conflict between patrons over limitedtransport."
Does Miranda need a secure taxi rank with security guards?
