PLANS to provide a taxi rank at Minehead railway station are being thwarted by laws enacted more than 150 years ago.

Under the Town Police Clauses Act of 1847, Hackney Carriages are only permitted to park on ranks in the town.

But consultations are going on between West Somerset District Council and cab representatives to look at the possibility of installing a rank outside the station.

The issue has been highlighted by Williton resident Bruce Galloway, who took elderly and disabled friends on a trip to Minehead on the West Somerset Railway.

Mr Galloway, of Escott Farmhouse, who wrote to the district council to ask why taxis were unavailable for elderly and disabled people at the station, said: "Wishing to travel into the town centre we searched for a taxi without success.

"I too am disabled and I had to walk all the way up to the taxi rank outside the Market building.

"Here we are in the 21st century and bureaucracy is floundering on laws enacted in 1847."

Licensing officer Kay O'Sullivan said: "I'm aware there is a need for a taxi rank at the station, and the issue is being discussed by all interested parties.

"However, the legal and consultation issues surrounding installing a new rank means the process is often long and protracted."

In plans announced in April, WSR wants to turn its seafront terminus into a major transport interchange, revitalising the town's status as a major resort, providing more jobs and bringing in thousands of tourists.

Railway officials are in discussions with the district council, which has plans for its own development on the nearby Market car park site that include a new showcase council office block.

Plans include a purpose-built transport interchange linking train, bus, taxi and coach services.