Dogs allowed on Metrolink for good after ‘resounding success’ of trial

Following a successful three month trial, our beloved pooches and pets will be allowed on the Metrolink in Greater Manchester

Written by Thom Bamford
Last updated 2 years ago
Community, Greater Manchester, Public Transport

The three month trial, which took place Between 1st August and 31st October was described as a ‘resounding success’ by council chiefs.

The move will now be set in stone by the Greater Manchester Combined authority at the end of January.

Previously only assistance dogs were allowed to travel on Metrolink.

Non-assistance dogs are allowed on buses and trains, though the rules vary depending on individual operators.

Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham pledged as part of his manifesto to allow dogs on trams in his bid for re-election in 2021, to make public transport ‘accessible as possible’.

Speaking at the time, he said:

“We want the Bee Network to work for everybody,”

“Running a pilot scheme allowing non-assistance dogs on Metrolink was one of the pledges I made when I was re-elected as mayor.”

There have been some concerns raised by the move, with Doreen Dickenson, cllr for Tameside suggesting that it could present problems during busy times.

She said: “When I’ve been on trams in rush hour, they are heaving – and it’s not fair to the dogs really because they get stressed and they panic a bit,”

“I can see an accident waiting to happen at rush hour.”

The Tameside councillor also asked who would enforce any rules which would require owners to clear up any dog mess and questioned whether there would be much space left for passengers if bikes were also allowed on trams in the future.

She added: “I’m not saying let’s not have dogs on trams, I just think we need to tighten the rules.”

Owners will need to follow rules on safety and cleanliness.

Here are some of the rules that will have to be followed according to the Transport for Greater Manchester website:

Metrolink will allow a maximum of two well-behaved dogs per passenger without charge, but you will be liable for their behaviour.
Dogs must always be kept on a lead and under control at all times. They will need to be able to listen to your commands and travel without bothering other passengers.
Your dog is your responsibility. If your dog is involved in an incident concerning another passenger or member of the public, you will be liable.
If your dog makes a mess on the tram, stop or anywhere on the network, you will need to clean it up and inform a member of staff where possible.
Dogs are not allowed on seats while travelling on the tram.
Be considerate of others on the Metrolink network who may be frightened of dogs, or who may be allergic to dog hair.
Be aware of your dog’s needs. Bring water and treats for your dog if you need to, but also make sure you have poo bags and wipes so that you can clean up after any mess your dog makes, on or off the tram.
Please keep your dog away from assistance dogs and the disabled boarding points.
You should avoid being in the wheelchair space on the tram and must move out of this space if a wheelchair or pram user needs it.

This article was last updated 2 years ago.
It was first published on 18 January 2023 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.

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