South Yorkshire’s Mayor makes dogs on trams trial permanent
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has confirmed that dogs will now be permanently allowed on Supertram services, following a successful trial and strong public support.
More than 10,600 people responded to a public consultation, with 75% in favour of changing the rules to allow dogs onboard. Since the trial began in March, over 6,000 dogs have travelled on Supertram – a clear sign of demand and public approval.
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.
The move follows similar successful trials on light rail networks in Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, and Blackpool.
South Yorkshire’s 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.”
Since Supertram came back under public control in 2024, investment has more than doubled to £15.3 million to improve the network. It’s part of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s commitment to invest over £110m by 2027. This includes upgrades to the trams, track, control systems and power supplies alongside the construction of a new Tram Train station at Magna.
Sean English, Managing Director at Supertram, said: “We’re delighted to welcome dogs onboard our trams permanently, following the strong public support we saw during the trial. This change reflects our commitment to making Supertram more accessible and responsive to the needs of our passengers.
“Throughout the trial, we worked hard to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both our customers and colleagues, and we’ll continue to monitor and manage the service to maintain a positive experience for everyone. It’s a great example of how listening to our passengers helps us shape a better, more inclusive transport network.
“I’d also like to thank our Supertram colleagues for their hard work and dedication throughout the trial period, their efforts were instrumental in making it a success.”
A new Business Plan for 2025/2026, approved in March by the SYMCA Board, outlines priorities for the tram network which includes a £15 million investment in the next two years tackling the issues caused by trams that are 30 years old. SYMCA is also looking at buying a new fleet by 2032, subject to government funding.
A new Tram-Train stop at Magna Science Adventure Centre is also being built, set to open in Winter 2025/6. It’s the first addition to the Tram Train service since 2018 and will serve visitors to the Magna Science Adventure Centre and people living and working in Templeborough, Rotherham.
With buses coming back under public control from 2027 and Supertram already under public control, it will allow the Mayor to realise his ambitions to create a fully integrated public transport system across South Yorkshire.
For more information and guidance about travelling with dogs on trams, visit the Dogs on Trams page on Travel South Yorkshire.
