Dogs will be allowed to travel on board Metrolink trams until into the New Year despite a trial scheme ending this month, transport bosses have revealed. They said a final, 'permanent basis' decision would be made in early January 2023, but pet pooches would be able to ride in the interim period.
The Manchester Evening News revealed last month the ongoing trial period, which was launched in August, has received a largely positive response - and Transport for Greater Manchester bosses have now revealed more than 2,000 people - a mixture of dog owners and regular passengers who don't have dogs, have commented on a survey designed to shape future policy.
Dogs must be kept on short leads - and there will be no extra travel charge for passengers with them. The scheme, a manifesto pledge made by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, is being delivered by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and tram operator Keolis Amey Metrolink (KAM).
Transport bosses have said that 'overall' so far, the survey 'has seen a positive response to allowing dogs on trams'. But there have been some 'concerns', specifically around allergies and dog behaviour - including persistent barking. Feedback over dogs taking up seats and space on board trams has also been reported as part of the survey.
Metrolink passengers are now being urged to have their say before the survey closes at the end of this month.
In a statement, TfGM said: "Since the beginning of August, a pilot scheme has permitted dogs to travel on the Metrolink network subject to rules regarding safety, cleanliness and consideration of other passengers are followed. To help us decide whether pet dogs should continue to be allowed on trams after the pilot ends, it’s important that we hear your views and experiences - whether you travel with a dog or not.
"The scheme has been delivered in partnership with tram operator KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
"More than 2,000 people – including dog owners and those without dogs – have already responded to the online survey, which will close on October 31. Feedback from the survey will inform whether or not pet dogs will be allowed on Metrolink on a permanent basis.
"A final decision will be made early in the New Year, and during the interim period while the survey results are analysed, dogs will continue to be allowed to travel on the network."
Danny Vaughan, TfGM's Head of Metrolink, said: "I want to thank everyone who has taken part in the survey so far, but I would urge everyone who has a view to have their say before it closes on October 31.
"Every response will help local leaders make an informed decision on whether to make this permanent or not."
Dogs on trams - the trial's rules:
· 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 short 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.
· Please keep your dog away from assistance dogs and the disabled boarding points
· Make sure you and your dog board and alight the tram together – be wary of trapping the lead in the door.
· 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.
· Do not let your dog sit under the seats as there are heaters and other systems which could harm them.
· Be considerate of others on the Metrolink network who may be frightened of dogs, or who may be allergic to dog hair.
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