Trams are a different proposition from buses for a mobility scooter user, because each tram has limited space and the operator decides who can travel. In Edinburgh, Scotland, that decision is made through a permit scheme. This guide sets out what Edinburgh Trams publishes about it. The rules belong to this operator; other tram and bus networks in Great Britain set their own, and they should be checked separately.
Only Class 2 scooters are accommodated
Edinburgh Trams says that, because of limited space on board, it can accommodate only Class 2 mobility scooters. Class 2 is the road-legality category for scooters limited to pavement use, and it is explained in our guide to Class 2 and Class 3 mobility scooters. A Class 3 scooter, built for road use, does not fall within the scheme (Edinburgh Trams, “Frequently asked questions”).
The permit scheme was introduced after a trial. Edinburgh Trams announced in July 2016 that its conditions of carriage would be permanently amended, from 1 August 2016, to allow customers to travel with Class 2 scooters in line with a permit scheme (Edinburgh Trams, “Mobility Scooters”).
Who can apply
Edinburgh Trams says that anyone holding a valid Scottish National Entitlement Card (SNEC) or a Disabled Person’s Blue Badge parking permit is eligible to apply for a permit. Anyone unsure whether they qualify is invited to contact Customer Relations on 0131 338 5780 (Edinburgh Trams, “Tram Accessibility”).
The size limits
The assessment checks that the scooter meets three criteria set out on the operator’s accessibility page:
- it is a Class 2 mobility scooter;
- it is no more than 1,200 mm long and 700 mm wide;
- it has a maximum turning radius of 1,200 mm.
The 2016 announcement adds that the assessment ensures the applicant can manoeuvre the scooter in a safe manner. The manufacturer’s specification sheet is the starting point for checking length, width and turning radius before applying.
How to apply
An application form has to be completed to process the permit. Edinburgh Trams lists three routes:
- By phone: staff talk the applicant through the form.
- Online: download the form and email or post it back. The operator also says that, in a rush, a completed form can be emailed and, if approved, the permit is emailed back.
- In person: at a Transport for Edinburgh TravelHub, a Park & Ride kiosk or the Information Lounge at the Edinburgh Airport tram stop.
After a successful assessment, the permit is posted to the applicant’s home address within 10 working days. According to the operator’s 2016 announcement, it is issued free of charge. The permit takes the form of a pass to be shown to colleagues on board (Edinburgh Trams, “Tram Accessibility”).
On board: two bays, and staff discretion
Every tram has two dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, in the middle carriage. The operator’s accessibility page describes them as wheelchair and buggy spaces, so the same area serves several kinds of passenger. It adds that carriage of a mobility scooter is at the discretion of the on-board staff, so holding a permit does not guarantee a place on a particular tram.
Passengers using wheelchairs are asked to enter the middle carriage, where a wheelchair symbol on the tram stop platform marks the waiting point. Once on board, the guidance for wheelchair users is to park in the wheelchair space with the back of the chair against the cushion and apply the brake, and to ring the bell before the stop so the driver allows extra time to leave. The operator gives that instruction under the heading for wheelchair users, so instructions for scooters on a particular tram can be confirmed with the staff on board.
The trams are low-floored with entrance ramps or lifts at tram stops, according to the operator, which describes every modern tram as wheelchair accessible.
Buggies and the wheelchair space
The operator’s FAQ says a passenger with an unfolded buggy should use the buggy space when it is free, and is asked to make it available if a wheelchair user needs the space. That places wheelchair and scooter users ahead of buggies for the shared area.
Not the same as e-scooters
Edinburgh Trams states that e-bikes and e-scooters are not permitted on its services at any time. The operator sets out mobility scooters separately, under its permit scheme (Edinburgh Trams, “Frequently asked questions”).
Questions readers often ask
Does the permit cost anything?
The operator’s 2016 announcement says the permit is posted free of charge. Current charges should be confirmed with Customer Relations.
Can a Class 3 scooter be used if it is set to 4 mph?
The published rule refers to Class 2 scooters only, so a Class 3 scooter is not covered by the scheme.
The bottom line
Edinburgh Trams accepts Class 2 mobility scooters that are no more than 1,200 mm long and 700 mm wide, with a turning radius of no more than 1,200 mm, for holders of a Scottish National Entitlement Card or a Blue Badge who obtain a permit. The permit is posted within 10 working days of a successful assessment, the two bays per tram are shared with wheelchairs and buggies, and staff decide on the day whether a scooter can travel. E-scooters are banned outright, while mobility scooters are dealt with under the permit scheme.
Sources
- Edinburgh Trams, “Tram Accessibility” (edinburghtrams.com)
- Edinburgh Trams, “Frequently asked questions” (edinburghtrams.com)
- Edinburgh Trams, “Mobility Scooters” (July 2016) (edinburghtrams.com)