Transport for Edinburgh has launched the first phase of a pioneering trial to allow mobility scooters to travel on trams.
The pilot scheme is a first in Scotland and will run in two parts; firstly inviting potential candidates to sign up to the scheme by applying for a permit, secondly inviting successful applicants to take their mobility vehicles on board.
Anyone who holds a valid Scottish National Entitlement Card (SNEC) or a Disabled Person’s Blue Badge parking permit is invited to apply to the scheme using the dedicated web page or by visiting any of Transport for Edinburgh’s Travelshops.
Applicants will each have their mobility scooters assessed to make sure it fits the specified criteria and those approved will be issued with a trial permit within 10 working days.
These permits, which will take the form of a pass, can then be used in the second phase of the trial starting on 1 January 2016.
Ian Craig, Chief Executive at Transport for Edinburgh, said:
Transport for Edinburgh has been working hard to make sure this trial is able to support as wide a range of mobility vehicle users as possible and we look forward to welcoming customers on board.
To make sure passengers in Edinburgh receive the best possible service, we have drawn on the experiences of other UK tram providers who have already trialled this system and feel confident we are offering the best approach.
I would encourage anyone who wishes to try out this service to get their applications in as soon as possible to ensure they have plenty of time to make use of these special circumstances.
The application phase is now open and will remain so over the course of the trial. Approved passengers will then be able to take their mobility vehicles on board from 1 January 2016 for an initial period of three months concluding on 31 March 2016.
John Ballantine, member at Edinburgh Access Panel, was involved in the consultation process ahead of the trial. He said:
Edinburgh Access Panel is delighted the carriage of mobility scooters on Edinburgh Trams is to be given a trial. We were pleased to be involved in the consultation regarding setting up the trial and are looking forward to mobility scooter users being able to take advantage of the tram to help them get around the city.
The trial is initially being rolled out across the Edinburgh Tram network meanwhile research and investigations into whether it may be extended for Lothian Buses are ongoing. Currently the variation in bus vehicle types and sizes means there may be increased limitations in what can be offered to passengers.