Translink bans e-scooters from June as new safety rules target battery fire risks

Passengers across Northern Ireland will no longer be allowed to bring e-scooters and other powered transporters onto public transport or station premises from June 1, under new safety measures introduced by Translink in response to growing concerns over lithium-ion battery fires.

The changes, which come into force across the Translink network at the start of June, will also restrict where e-bicycles can be carried — with access permitted on trains only, while being banned entirely from buses and coaches, including luggage compartments.

New rules reshape what passengers can bring on board

Under the updated guidance, powered transporters — a category that includes e-scooters, segways, e-unicycles, hoverboards and e-skateboards — will be completely prohibited on both Translink vehicles and premises, regardless of whether they are folded or unfolded.

E-bicycles will remain allowed in limited circumstances. They can continue to be taken on trains and stored in designated bicycle parking areas within stations, but will not be permitted on buses or coaches due to safety concerns linked to enclosed storage environments.

Folded e-bicycles will be allowed on Glider services, but only where sufficient space is available.

The restrictions are being introduced as part of wider safety measures tied to the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which power many of these devices.

Fire risk concerns drive decision

Translink said the move follows research into the emerging dangers linked to lithium-ion batteries, including the potential for thermal runaway — a process that can lead to fires, smoke and hazardous fumes.

The organisation said the policy reflects the latest expert guidance and is designed to reduce risks in confined public transport environments where incidents could have serious consequences.

These developments come amid increasing scrutiny globally around battery safety in personal transport devices, particularly in busy or enclosed public settings.

Accessibility protections remain unchanged

Despite the new restrictions, Translink has confirmed that mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs will continue to be permitted across its services and premises.

These devices are covered under the organisation’s Accessibility Policy and remain essential for many passengers. Customers using mobility aids must ensure their equipment has been assessed and displays the appropriate approval sticker in line with Translink’s Accessible Travel Policy.

Translink urges passengers to prepare ahead of June rollout

John Thompson, speaking on behalf of Translink, said the changes are focused on maintaining safety across the network while ensuring passengers can continue to travel with confidence.

“Safety is always at the heart of our operations, and we want everyone who uses our services to feel confident, ensuring everyone gets home safe everyday.

“We’ve taken time to research the emerging fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries and to understand how we can best respond. Our focus is on providing clear, practical guidance so we can continue delivering safe, reliable journeys for all.

“We’re asking customers to take time to familiarise themselves with the new guidance before June 1. We really appreciate everyone’s support as we make these positive, preventative changes.”

Passengers are being encouraged to review the full guidance in advance of the changes coming into effect.

Further information is available via Translink’s website at www.translink.co.uk/poweredtransporters.

What the changes mean in practice

From June 1, anyone travelling on Translink services will need to adjust what they bring with them: Powered transporters will be entirely banned from all services and premises, while e-bicycles will face significant restrictions depending on the mode of transport.

The move is expected to impact commuters who rely on e-scooters or similar devices for first- and last-mile travel connections, as well as those who currently combine bus or coach journeys with e-bike travel.

At the same time, the continued allowance for mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs ensures that passengers who depend on these devices for essential mobility will not be affected by the changes.

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At a glance

• New Translink safety rules take effect from June 1, 2026

• Powered transporters, including e-scooters, banned from all vehicles and premises

• E-bicycles allowed on trains but banned from buses and coaches

• Folded e-bikes permitted on Glider services only if space allows

• Changes driven by fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries

• Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs remain permitted

• Policy applies to both folded and unfolded powered transporters

• Passengers urged to review guidance before implementation

• Full details available at www.translink.co.uk/poweredtransporters