Passengers in Blackburn are now able to download and use the Uber app after the company launch a new feature called ‘Local Cab’.

However, a regular Uber driver won’t be turning up at your door once you order via the app as Local Cab enables passengers in the town to book a trip with a local taxi company.

Residents and visitors to Blackburn had not previously been able to book a ride via Uber; this is despite the app being opened almost 12,600 times by locals in September 2021, proving its popularity.

Anyone opening the Uber app in Blackburn will be presented with the Local Cab option, which connects them with local taxi firm City Taxis, which served Blackburn with Darwen.

Muhammed Shakoor, Director at City Taxis, said he is “proud” to be serving the local community via uber.

He explained: “We’re proud to bring Local Cab to the people of Blackburn.

“This provides another way for customers to book with us – and for anyone visiting Blackburn that already uses the Uber app, Local Cab will make it easy for them to book a ride with a local operator.”

How does the Local Cab feature work?

The ‘local cab’ feature was trialed in six UK towns and cities earlier this year and Uber is now extending the service to other areas of the country.

In order to meet growing demand for trips and extend the use of its app beyond the 40 UK towns and cities in which it currently operates, Uber is looking to work with local operators.

Passengers will receive the driver and vehicle details in the Uber app as usual once their booking has been confirmed. The local cab operator provides the vehicle and driver each time. 

In terms of how it looks visually, passengers open the app in the usual way, enter their trip details and then will see a drop-down with the Local Cab option.

Ash Kebriti, UK General Manager, Uber, said: “The Local Cab pilot has proved to be a success for local operators, riders and local economies.

“Local operators have seen increased demand for trips and are now actively recruiting new drivers, which is having a positive impact on the local economy.

“We are now excited to roll the product out to more towns and cities across the UK.”

To find our more about Local Cab and how it works visit the Uber website.

Social, newsletters, subscriptions and getting in touch...

You can follow the Lancashire Telegraph on social media, by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We also have dedicated Facebook groups on Crime & Court, Traffic & Travel, Nostalgia and our Lancashire Family page

If you want to make sure you don't miss the most important news stories every day, sign up to one of our free e-mail newsletters 

Gain unlimited access to the Lancashire Telegraph website with a premium digital subscription - we are running a £2 for two months special offer

Or if you want the Telegraph newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227

Finally, have you got a story for us? If so, contact our newsdesk at lancsnews@nqnw.co.uk or by using our online contribution form