Metrolink's accessibility crisis: A disabled man's harrowing experience and the urgent need for change
The Issue:
The Metrolink tram network in Greater Manchester has been plagued by malfunctioning lifts, causing significant disruptions for disabled passengers. This crisis came to a head when a wheelchair-bound man, Gary Dawson, was left stranded on a platform at night due to a broken lift. His viral video highlights the unacceptable nature of this situation, sparking a much-needed conversation.
The Impact:
Dawson's experience is not an isolated incident. The Manchester Evening News uncovered a pattern of lift failures across multiple stations, including Heaton Park, Freehold, Cornbrook, Central Park, Failsworth, Firswood, and Dane Road. This has resulted in disabled passengers being forced to make alternative arrangements, sometimes involving contacting the customer contact center for journey planning support or even traveling to different stops.
A Call for Action:
The situation has prompted a response from Mayor Andy Burnham, who apologized and acknowledged the unacceptable nature of the issue. However, it is clear that more needs to be done. The Spinal Injuries Association and disability advocates emphasize the need for improved accessibility and inclusivity in public transport.
The Way Forward:
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has acknowledged the problem and is taking steps to address it. They plan to accelerate repair times and introduce remote monitoring for lifts, ensuring real-time updates and faster responses to faults. Additionally, they aim to replace lifts at several stations over the next two years, including Failsworth, Firswood, Chorlton, Brooklands, and Heaton Park.
A Community's Voice:
Joe Troop, a disability advocate, highlights the broader impact on the community. He emphasizes that faulty lifts and long repair times create barriers for disabled individuals, hindering their ability to fully participate in community life. This sentiment is shared by the Spinal Injuries Association, who hope that sharing Gary Dawson's story will lead to much-needed improvements.
The Need for Urgent Action:
The Metrolink service has faced criticism in the past, with a previous incident involving a man stuck on a platform for an hour due to a lift fault. Ashley Armstrong, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, also encountered similar issues at Heaton Park, highlighting the recurring nature of these problems.
Connor O'Brien, in a humorous yet impactful video, showcased the challenges faced by disabled passengers, emphasizing the need for immediate solutions.
As the lifts at Cornbrook, Central Park, and Firswood were repaired after being reported, it is crucial to ensure that all stations receive the necessary attention to prevent further disruptions. The ongoing work to replace lifts across the network is a step in the right direction, but it must be accelerated to meet the urgent needs of the community.
