It is on level four behind Hoyts Cinema, is close to shops, is under video surveillance and has a phone to contact security.

Blacktown police commander Mark Wright said the new arrangement was part of police plans to improve public safety.

``We don't have many recorded instances of trouble at Blacktown station's taxi stand but there's a perception that it's not as safe,'' Superintendent Wright said.

He said the level four stand also had a set-down area. ``Parents can drive there and drop off their kids who can then go straight to the cinema or the restaurants,'' he said.

Westpoint Blacktown manager Tony Poile said this was convenient as well as safer.

``We're always working to make Westpoint as safe as we can,'' he said. ``It's also improving services for our customers.''

Blacktown Mayor Charlie Lowles said this would be welcomed by older people and people with disabilities. ``As chairman of the seniors' advisory committee as well as Blacktown Mayor I've always had a concern about accessibility to shops on higher levels,'' he said.

``It's easier when you don't have to walk upstairs to do your shopping but just get out of a taxi. You can also come here in a taxi, dine well, come out and get a taxi home.''

Superintendent Wright said the new taxi stand would not have been possible without the commitment and co-operation of Westpoint Blacktown and Premier Cabs. ``We'll soon be meeting with Blacktown Council and the railways to look at ways of improving safety around Blacktown railway station,'' he said.