Along the Tyne and Wear Metro, Nexus has notified the public that they will be deploying security on most trains to help tackle anti-social behaviour should it arise, as well as providing customer reassurance.

Nexus has stated that they have taken the feedback from its customers and Metro team before committing to the increase of security so that people feel safer using evening transport.

This commitment will take the security level on Metro to its highest level, with security on board most services from 7pm daily. Security used by Nexus has increased significantly since they first introduced the Metro security team in 2022.

The cost of the increased security is being covered by the increased Metro revenue being put alongside a contribution from the Safer Streets ASB and transport initiative.

Managing Director of Nexus, Martin Kearney, said: “This represents a major change in how we operate, providing reassurance and support to our customers and the Metro team.

“We will provide a security presence on the majority of Metro services from 19:00 every evening. We are grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner and local authorities for their support. By working together we can ensure public transport is safe for everyone. This commitment will take the security presence on Metro to its highest ever level.

“The security team will work alongside the dedicated police patrols we get from the Northumbria Force, and from the British Transport Police on the Sunderland line.

“We have listened to what customers and our Metro team have asked for. People said there needed to be a greater visible presence of security on board the Metro trains at night and we are delivering on that.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “Reliable, affordable and crucially, safe – that’s what people tell me they want from our public transport services and this is an example of how, together, we are delivering on this. Our Metro connects our communities and links people to opportunities, and it’s so important that people feel safe and comfortable when on board.

“These enhanced security measures are a welcome boost supporting our continued policing efforts and other Safer Transport Northumbria initiatives I’m funding such as youth engagement and focused days of action. Sustainable transport options like the Metro need investing in to make travel safer in the North East and I will keep fighting for this because it matters to local people and will help our region thrive.”