Uber has announced a 10% hike on fares in London, the first price rise by the company in the capital since 2017.

Amid surging demand and a shortfall of drivers the 10% climb will be joined by a 25% jump for airport journeys, the taxi company said. 

Uber this year said it hoped to hire another 20,000 drivers by the end of the year to return the service to it’s pre-pandemic rate.

As of recent the ride-hailing firm begun classing drivers as workers after losing a long court battle. Adding contributions to pensions and pay in lieu of holiday, it said drivers could earn £20-£30 an hour on average.

“We’re making these changes to help provide a better rider experience, by signing up more drivers to meet the growing demand,” Uber said.

“We know people rely on Uber to book a safe trip around London and this small fare increase will help reduce wait times. As always riders will get a fare estimate before booking their journey.”

Demand had increased even more in some cities outside London, Uber said, including by 24% in Birmingham and 40% in Nottingham; demand in the capital was up by 20%.

Despite this no other city will be effected by the price increase which will see Uber’s minimum fare in the capital rise from £5.00 to £5.50.