Modernising the Metro

October 2nd 2009

Engineers have successfully replaced almost 800 metres of ageing overhead catenary wire in a tunnel between North Shields and Tynemouth. It is the oldest on the Tyne and Wear Metro, having opened in 1842. The project provides a permanent solution to a temporary repair which was put in place earlier this year after an overhead wire broke.
Ken Mackay, Nexus Director of Rail and Infrastructure, said "The North Shields tunnel dates from the era of Robert Stephenson and is a cramped, dirty place to work but keeping it in good shape is crucial to keeping the trains running reliably."
Work has also started on the final phase of a £7 million upgrade to Sunderland Station, giving the facility a striking new look. Improved lighting, passenger information systems and waiting areas are major elements of the project as well as new flooring on the 140-metre platforms. The station will remain open despite the works, which are due to last nine months, but parts of the platforms and access to them will be shut off in phases.
Nexus, which owns and manages the Metro, is currently undertaking a £300 million modernisation of the system.

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