A section of the Tyne and Wear Metro in Newcastle will be closed for nine days starting August 15 to allow for extensive renewal work, including a major refurbishment of the Regent Centre interchange. The closure will affect the ‘green line’ segment between South Gosforth and Airport, with services suspended in both directions until August 23.
During the shutdown, the existing metal canopy over the Metro lines and the bus station roadway at Regent Centre will be dismantled, rendering the station entrance inaccessible. This demolition is a key component of a £7.94 million project aimed at modernizing the hub. Improvements will include creating a brighter environment, adding new retail spaces, and installing clearer signage to enhance the passenger experience. The refurbishment is being carried out by contractor Kier.
In addition to the work at Regent Centre, several other upgrades are planned during the closure period. These include track renewal and station improvements at Callerton Parkway, Bank Foot, Kingston Park, Fawdon, and Wansbeck Road. Cable repairs and lineside estate management work will also be undertaken as part of the broader effort to maintain and enhance the Metro network.
Nexus, the operator of the Metro system, has arranged for replacement bus services to run throughout the closure. These buses will stop at or as close as possible to affected stations. Passengers have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra travel time due to the disruption.
Paul Welford, major projects director at Nexus, highlighted the necessity of the line closure in order to complete the renewal work safely and effectively. He emphasized the importance of the investment to ensure the Metro remains functional and reliable for years ahead, acknowledging the challenges posed by the temporary suspension of service but noting efforts to minimize disruption.
“There is no good time to close a line, and we do so to minimise disruption to as many customers as possible,” Welford said. The comprehensive renewal works reflect efforts to maintain infrastructure and improve passenger facilities within the Tyne and Wear Metro system.