Officials at Manchester Metrolink are to look at the possible introduction of a permit scheme for some mobility scooter users to allow them to be used on the network. Previously all mobility scooters were officially banned from Metrolink due to concerns over their manoeuvrability and the space they take on a tram but following a national report which states that 22 out of 300 different types of scooter available could be safely accommodated on buses.
Cllr Andrew Fender, Chair of the TfGM Committee, explains more: “We welcome the Rica report and have played an active part in its evolution. We clearly needed national guidance and called upon the DfT to provide a definitive position on scooters – much like there is a “reference” size for wheelchairs. This report now gives us that. Our focus will now be on addressing what type of scooter could be safely accommodated on Metrolink. This is a very welcome step forward and I look forward to progress being made on this in the coming months.”
Metrolink will now study the report in depth to look at which mobility scooters may be suitable to be allowed access to the network before presenting a report to the TfGM Committee proposing a permit scheme and any associated changes to the policies and byelaws.
The first time a scooter is powered through closed doors and out onto the track, or over someone’s toes, there will need to be a re-think.
This would be very welcome news and I have at present got a mobility scooter that goes in the back of the car and to have the freedom to take this on the excellent tram network would be an added bonus to my life.
By the way I have very successfully taken my scooter on the Blackpool tram during the off peak period last summer.
I have read the recent article in the Oldham Chronicle “Scooters to be trialled” and would appreciate information as to how to apply for a PERMIT, what is the next move?
I would suggest to Jack that he visits the TfGM website announcement regarding mobility scooters here -http://www.tfgm.com/Corporate/media_centre/Pages/News.aspx?articleId=420
It gives a link to the scheme page.