'If we can't make it work safely, we can't make it work', bosses say ahead of bikes on Metrolink trams trial
26.01.2024 - 06:43
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Bicycles won't be allowed on board Metrolink trams unless it can be done safely, a key transport committee has heard.
The Manchester Evening News reported a trial of allowing bicycles on trams will take place over six weeks from next month, fulfilling an election pledge of the mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Transport for Greater Manchester will invite 'volunteers' to take different types of bikes on specific tram journeys travelling to different locations at different times of the day. They will be accompanied by staff to ensure passenger safety.
TfGM said the pilot - during off-peak times only - would provide 'insight into the identified risks and issues' of any future policy change. Currently, Metrolink regulations state cyclists can only take folding bikes on board trams, and only if they are fully folded and covered.
Try MEN Premium now for FREE... just click here to give it a go.
Bury councillor Eamonn O'Brien, chair of the Bee Network Committee, spoke after a fellow councillor raised 'serious concerns' about safety. Any policy charge would require bikes to be secured at all times.
Rochdale councillor Phil Burke said at a meeting of the committee on Thursday: "Only two weeks ago I was involved in a crash where a car went straight into the side of a tram. I head-butted my colleague twice, first of all because of the car slamming into tram then the tram putting on the emergency brakes.
"Four of us suffered injuries. This was on a quiet night - on a Wednesday night when not many people were on the tram. Should something serious happen on a tram where we have got bikes, I would hate to see what sort of injuries people would suffer."
He said that in many cases, bikes wouldn't be on board trams for long,