Seven free Metro station car parks could get new charges as Nexus confirms decision under review
Free car parks at seven Tyne and Wear Metro stations could have new charges imposed – but bosses have shelved plans to do so this April.
Transport chiefs are exploring the possibility of introducing new parking fees at a series of Metro stations in both North and South Tyneside.
The seven stations understood to be proposed for possible new parking charges are Cullercoats, Monkseaton, Shiremoor, Whitley Bay, East Boldon, Fellgate, and Hebburn.
Concerns have already been aired about drivers deciding to park on neighbouring residential streets instead, after the prospect of a daily charge of up to £1.80 at Hebburn, Fellgate and East Boldon stations emerged at community forum meetings last month.
While it had been suggested that the fees could be introduced on April 1, when new Metro ticket prices come into force, operator Nexus has confirmed that will not be the case.
The possibility remains under review, however, as Nexus seeks ways to boost its income and close a budget gap that currently leaves it needing to spend around £18 million of its cash reserves by 2029 to balance the books.
Nexus commercial director Helen Mathews said: “We are currently in the process of reviewing the car parking provision on the Tyne and Wear Metro. No final decision has been made yet on what changes we might make and we will be liaising with our local authority partners on this. Further information will be provided in due course.”
Under the new Metro fares package agreed by council leaders, the daily cost of leaving your vehicle at the park and ride sites at Callerton Parkway, Bank Foot, Regent Centre, Four Lane Ends, Northumberland Park and Stadium of Light stations will rise from £1.50 to £1.80 per day from April 1.
But no new charges at stations where parking is currently free were part of the budget plans signed off by the North East Combined Authority.