Metrolink’s mobility scooter permit trial extended

Metrolink’s mobility scooter permit trial extended

A trial permit scheme that is allowing accredited mobility scooter users to travel by Metrolink has been extended through to 1 December 2014.

Since the six month trial started on 31 March this year, 52 customers have received a permit to travel with their mobility scooter on Metrolink.

ShopMobility Manchester has managed the day-to-day permit assessment process on behalf of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

TfGM is currently evaluating the project and is in discussions with ShopMobility Manchester about funding the costs of a volunteer programme to manage the scheme in future.

A full report, with recommendations on a long-term scheme, will be made to the next TfGM Committee on 14 November.

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “This permit scheme has had a huge impact on quality of life for more than 50 people, who can now access everything the tram network has to offer.

“Metrolink is one of the most accessible transport systems in the UK and it’s great to see it gradually opening up to even more people.

“It’s important that there is a detailed evaluation of the permit scheme before we can make a decision on its long-term future. I look forward to this Committee receiving a full update in November.”

The Metrolink Mobility Scooter permit scheme came in direct response to passenger demand and government commissioned guidance.

As part of the application process, ShopMobility Manchester assesses a detailed application form and the model of scooter – as some are too large for the Metrolink network. The next stage is a customer assessment to ensure that applicants can move safely around the raised platforms and in the tram’s wheelchair space.

So far, a handful of applications have not been progressed either due to scooter size or the user’s ability to manoeuvre safely around the tram network.

The scheme is open to people who live in Greater Manchester and hold an English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) Disabled Person’s Pass or a TfGM Travel Voucher pass.