Dogs will now be allowed to ride Sheffield trams permanently.
A trial to allow dogs on trams began in March, with over 6,000 canines stepping onto Sheffield’s carriages since then. The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority said the trial proved the public demand for and approval of letting dogs on trams, adding that three-quarters of more than 10,000 polled said they agreed with the decision.
Previously, only assistance dogs or dogs in carry cages were permitted. Under the new permanent policy, one well-behaved dog per passenger will be allowed to travel on Supertram.
South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “Fixing public transport in South Yorkshire means making it work for all of us, and that includes our four-legged friends. More than 10,000 people have told us: allowing dogs on trams makes our network more inclusive and accessible.
“We’re building a public transport system that reflects the needs of the people who use it every day. Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or simply heading out with your dog, Supertram will get you there.”
When the decision was announced on social media, people responded positively.
“Great news,” Cheryl Hey said. Paula Gallear Taylor said: “Great news. My little dog has already made a few journeys.”
Graham Moss admitted he thought the trial would not go well but said he was proved wrong, while Jonathan Roy Hague simply said, “That’s brilliant.”
It comes as Sheffield City Council announced plans to extend the tram network across the city centre, while SYMCA said it intends to provide a new fleet of trams by 2032, subject to government investment.
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