Metro access for mobility scooters
1
1
Date of visit: October 2018
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Bad
My only way to get out on my own is by using my foldable scooter however Tyneside Metro do not allow scooter use within their stations, not even to get from the street to the platform. This is highly frustrating as powered wheelchairs are allowed. If only they allowed folding scooter use up to the platforms it would enable use by thousands. If you have a folding scooter it must be folded at the entrance and wheeled through the station and onto the metro, but as many of the stations are very large this makes it unaccessible to people who can only walk very short distance 10-50 metres - it can be quite a feat to pull a folable scooter more than a few metres for many disabled people. It is my intention to approach them to get this changed. There is already a review for wheelchair use within the metro system which I fully agree with so wont write more on that.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
Access into stations is usually good with ramps although these are sometimes steep and long, but lifts are frequently breaking down so it is wise to check online before travelling.
Parking & Transport
Poor
This can vary as the stations are widespread.
Accessible Toilets
Bad
I have not seen a toilet within a metro station yet.
Staff
Good
Staff are generally helpful
Additional Information
The metro is a great form of transport and whilst suitable for wheelchair use it is not available to use by any form of scooter - not even within the station.
