Some public transport operators accept mobility scooters with no advance paperwork; others make travel conditional on a permit. Manchester Metrolink, the tram network run under the Bee Network by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), is in the second group. This guide sets out what TfGM publishes about its permit scheme. It applies to Metrolink trams in Greater Manchester, England, and matters most for anyone planning ahead, because TfGM says it is reviewing its mobility scooter policies. Other operators have their own rules, such as those covered in our guide to Edinburgh trams in Scotland.
What TfGM requires
TfGM states that mobility scooter users must have a mobility scooter permit to take a scooter on a Metrolink tram. To take a scooter on a tram, a traveller must have proof of disability, such as a National Concessionary Travel pass, a Concession Plus pass, TfGM travel vouchers or a blue badge, and a valid permit showing that the scooter is within the size limit and that the user can operate it competently (TfGM, “Wheelchairs and mobility scooters on Metrolink”).
The permit is specific to Metrolink. In the customer declaration, applicants acknowledge that a permit granted by a bus operator does not cover the tram network, and that the Metrolink permit is not recognised on other light rail networks (TfGM, “Mobility Scooters on Metrolink Permit Scheme”).
How the permit is obtained
TfGM directs people to phone 0161 244 1000 and select option one for the latest information and for permit testing appointments. The declaration adds several steps: the user must complete “on tram” training before an application is progressed, the battery is visually checked as part of validation, and the permit is non-transferable. A separate capability test is needed for each scooter, and each scooter must be registered with TfGM.
Conditions the declaration lists
By signing, applicants agree to a range of conditions. The ones that affect day-to-day travel are:
- Speed and position: no more than 4 mph on the network, with a suggestion to go slower on board, and the user remains seated throughout.
- Parking on the tram: the scooter must be parked correctly in the designated space, with the power off and the brake applied while stationary. Any roof cover must be removed before boarding.
- The wheelchair space: it is first come, first served, so a user may have to wait for a tram with the space free.
- Stairs and escalators: not to be used with the scooter. TfGM also notes that all lifts can accommodate reference-sized wheelchairs but not every lift can accommodate a mobility scooter.
- Battery and tyres: the user is responsible for enough charge to complete the journey and for safe tyre pressure. If either fails, the declaration says to free-wheel the scooter off the network at a convenient point and arrange collection.
- Load and phone use: no travel overladen with shopping, and no mobile phone use while driving on the network.
- Alcohol and impairment: no use under the influence of alcohol, or when ability is impaired by prescribed or non-prescribed drugs.
- Displaying the permit: it must be displayed on the scooter, and staff may ask for proof of eligibility.
TfGM also says it is strongly advised to insure the scooter against damage to property and to other customers, and that users may be asked to contribute to the cost of repairs to damage they cause. Failure to meet the conditions, or a change in the user’s ability to operate the scooter safely, may lead to the permit being withdrawn. For the general position on insurance, see our guide to mobility scooter insurance.
Boarding and help on the platform
TfGM says every tram has an area for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, and that users who want the wheelchair bays should wait at the marked disabled boarding points, where the middle set of doors opens at the bays. The declaration warns that the gap between platform edge and tram can vary, and that this should be allowed for when boarding “head on”. A scooter user unsure about crossing the platform can contact the Metrolink team through the Customer Service Help Point or Emergency Call Point, and the help button on the tram allows contact with the driver.
Questions readers often ask
Do I need the permit if I already have one for a bus?
Yes. TfGM’s declaration says a separate permit is required for the Metrolink network, even where a bus operator has granted one.
Can I take the scooter on other tram systems with this permit?
No. The declaration states the permit is not recognised across other light rail networks, and travellers are told to check the conditions of carriage for other operators.
Is the scheme fixed?
TfGM’s pages say it is currently reviewing its mobility scooter policies and point to a consultation and engagement page for updates. Anyone planning to apply should confirm the current arrangements by phone first.
The bottom line
On Manchester Metrolink, a mobility scooter needs a TfGM permit, which requires proof of eligibility, a competence check, on-tram training and a battery check, and which covers one registered scooter and one user. Travel is limited to 4 mph, the wheelchair space is first come, first served, and stairs and escalators are off limits. Because TfGM says its policies are under review, the current requirements should be confirmed on 0161 244 1000 before applying.
Sources
- TfGM, “Wheelchairs and mobility scooters on Metrolink” (tfgm.com)
- TfGM, “Mobility Scooters on Metrolink Permit Scheme: Customer Declaration” (tfgm.com)
- TfGM, “Wheelchairs and mobility scooters on the Bee Network” (tfgm.com)