Dogs on trams plan off track

A LIBERAL Democrat proposal for a 12-month trial allowing dogs to travel on trams has been blocked by Labour and Conservative councillors.

The Lib-Dems asked Transport for Greater Manchester to consider the trial following a public consultation that revealed 71 per cent of respondents were in favour of allowing dogs on trams.

The Lib-Dems say they will continue to press for a trial run when the issue returns in November.

The trial would allow dogs to travel at off-peak times, on a lead and under control - rules already in force for bus and train travel.

The current bye-law banning dogs has been in force since Metrolink opened in 1992. A Facebook campaign urged Metrolink bosses to change the rules and the resulting public consultation was launched in January. Earlier this month councillors deferred a vote until November.