Blackpool Transport provides fully accessible rail replacement services
Blackpool has taken steps to ensure that its rail replacement buses are fully accessible.
As part of a contract with a train operating company, Blackpool Transport provide buses for rail replacement services.
Following feedback from disabled people, Blackpool has taken steps to ensure that its rail replacement buses are fully accessible. The buses include 2 allocated wheelchair spaces (while still leaving room for a buggy), with rolling information screens positioned above them, allowing users to see which stop is next without having to turn around.
Before putting the buses into operation, Blackpool worked with representatives of local charity Disability First to ensure that 2 wheelchair users could simultaneously access the bus and occupy the designated wheelchair spaces.
To ensure that the wheelchair spaces and buggy space are always available for users, separate luggage racks have been installed.
The wheelchair spaces and buggy space have also been fitted with fold-down seats, so that when they are not in use by people with wheelchairs or people with a buggy, they can be used by other customers.
Working with the relevant train operating company and Transport Focus, Blackpool gathered feedback from customers who had used the rail replacement vehicles during a period of rail disruption. Customers reported a 94% satisfaction rate with the service provided.
For more information visit Blackpool Transport’s website.
Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme
This case study has been published alongside guidance on the Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme and further examples of work being done in the transport sector to improve transport for disabled people.