News & Blog

Read the latest business news, blogs and thought leadership articles from our members, as well as updates on the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce's work in the city.

News & Blog

Edinburgh Trams to allow bicycles on board following trial

Posted: 2nd July 2015

edinburgh trams
Bicycles are to be permanently allowed on Edinburgh Trams following a successful two-month trial.

During the trial, an average of 12 bikes a day were carried on trams, with York Place the most popular boarding point. Feedback found both passengers and staff were favour of making the trial a permanent part of the service.

Michael Powell, Safety, Quality & Environment Manager at Edinburgh Trams, said:
After considering passenger feedback and the number of cyclists using the trams every day we agreed that there was little to no impact on daily operations and so we are happy to welcome bikes on board. Although the numbers are currently quite small we expect that more people may use their bikes in future, so we are keeping the hours and conditions that applied during the trial, to make sure we continue to look after the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Lesley Hinds, Chair, Transport for Edinburgh said:
Edinburgh Trams is the first UK tram operator to allow bikes on board and I am delighted that we leading the way to ensure that Edinburgh’s system is truly integrated with all types of transport methods. The tram route connects to several cycle paths leading around the city and this will hopefully encourage more people into public transport.

Ian Maxwell from Spokes the Lothian Cycle Campaign said:
We’ve been pleased to work with Edinburgh Trams on this trial and welcome the decision they have made to extend access. We urge cyclists to respect other tram users, but also hope that in future tram staff will have discretion to allow bicycles on quiet off-peak trams.

Travel conditions:

Cyclists can be take their bicycles on Edinburgh Trams seven days a week (except from week day peak travel hours 0730 – 0930 & 1600-1830).

Bicycles will not be permitted during the Edinburgh Festival, 7–31 August or during other pre-publicised special events where there may be a greater demand for travel.

Passengers with disabilities, or those with prams or buggies, will take priority over bicycles. Tram staff will have the discretion to decline bicycles if services are busy.

Only two bicycles can be carried per tram. Cyclists should stand at the centre section, marked on the platform by a disabled logo tile, and take guidance from staff.

Cyclists remain with their bicycles at all times.

Business Comment

Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
Read more here