THE annual Edinburgh taxi outing for sick children is set to go ahead after it was "reluctantly" cancelled due to a police policy change.
The annual outing, organised and funded by taxi drivers, gives children with special needs, life-limiting conditions and terminal illnesses a day out where they are driven around the city in colourfully decorated taxis.
The National previously told how organisers felt they had "no option" but to cancel the event, citing a policy change which left police officers unable to escort the cabs.
The decision sparked backlash from organisers and members of the local community, and on Wednesday it was confirmed that the event will now go ahead following discussions between organisers and police, who have found a "workable solution".
Keith Bell, secretary of the Edinburgh Taxi Outing, said: “We had an open and frank discussion about the recent events regarding this year‘s Edinburgh Taxi Outing.
“I’m pleased to say that we appear to have found a workable solution to allow this year‘s event to go ahead. We are having another planning meeting on Thursday and I am hopeful that following that meeting, we will be able to finalise a plan that allows the event to take place on June 9, which will be great news for the children and families involved."
Bell thanked those who contacted the police and politicians, saying organisers are "deeply humbled by the love and support that has been shown by so many towards the outing".
Meanwhile, Police Scotland said an "outline plan" had been agreed which would allow the event to run on its original route.
We can provide the following update on planning for the Edinburgh Taxi Outing. Superintendent Neil Wilson said: "Our focus throughout has been to support the Edinburgh Taxi Outing as we have done for many years. pic.twitter.com/Mwcs9X56nd
— Police Scotland Edinburgh (@PSOSEdinburgh) May 27, 2026
Superintendent Neil Wilson said: "Our focus throughout has been to support the Edinburgh Taxi Outing as we have done for many years. We have held constructive discussions today with the event organiser and have agreed an outline plan which allows the event to run safely on its original route.
"Further discussions will take place in the coming days to finalise the police operation to support the event and ensure the children enjoy their day."
The Edinburgh Taxi Outing is set to take place for the 78th time on June 9.
