A huge Metro modernisation programme sees the line closed between Newcastle and North Tyneside for 5 days from Monday the 21st of February.

As part of the £30m programme of wire renewals, Nexus, who own and run Metro, will be carrying out the replacement of vital overhead power lines in order to prepare the network for its brand new Metro train fleet.

Track replacement will also be undertaken during the periods of closure alongside essential work on Metro bridges, embankments and vegetation management.

No Metro service will be in operation between St. James and Tynemouth over a five day period from Monday the 21st to the 25th of February, however, a regular replacement bus service will be running for the areas affected.

Saturday the 26th of February will see services return to normal.

Major Projects Director at Nexus, Cathy Massarella, said: “We are investing £30m in Metro’s overhead lines as we get ready for the new trains arriving at the end of the year.

“The five-day closure allows us to replace a large section of wire between Newcastle and North Tyneside, and also carry out other essential modernisation including track and embankment work.

“There is no good time to close a large section of the network. Carrying out major work in half-term break means we also avoid disrupting education for pupils who use Metro to get to school in the affected area.

“We will ensure there is a fast and reliable replacement bus service running when the Metro line is shut. We advise customers to plan their journeys in advance before travelling.”

The work has been condensed into a period of five days which will prevent the need for months of weekend closures.

The programme of work will see overhead line in Metro’s central area tunnels beneath Newcastle city centre between St. James and Manors stations and will see a massive 12,000m of contact and catenary wire replaced for the 6km section.

To find out more about the line closure please visit the Nexus website.