A new scheme has been launched by train operator Northern which will allow mobility scooter users to travel to and from over 100 stations on the network.
The new accessibility scheme has been launched after a successful trial and will allow passengers to apply for a permit for their scooter.
Twenty-one routes across the Northern railway network are included in the scheme with a total of 140 stations.
After making an application, the scooter will be assessed, and if successful, the user will be given a personalised sticker to be placed on the scooter. In addition, a card will be issued for anyone who has not got a place on their scooter for a sticker.
Scooter users can visit the Northern website to make an online application for a permit.
Maxine Myers, Accessibility Improvement Manager, at Northern, said: “More than 21 routes across our network are now scooter friendly – and more will be rolled out in the near future as we continue to make our trains and stations as accessible as possible for our passengers.
“We have been working with members of the Northern Trains Accessibility User Group to create a phased introduction of routes and stations where Northern can accommodate scooter users.
“Anyone who wants to bring their scooters on our trains should apply for a permit first so we can check it meets the standards that make it safe for us to take it on-board.”
Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “We are committed to giving people with additional mobility needs the confidence to travel by rail.
“The mobility scooter scheme is an example of this commitment, and we’ll be looking to deliver improved accessibility across our network as we roll out similar improvements at other stations in the future.”
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Responses
As well as bikes.
And perhaps add more extra trains to operate in Northeast England and Northwest England to help boost more capacity.