Whitley Bay Metro footbridge reopens following multi-million pound restoration
A historic Metro footbridge in North Tyneside is back open to the public following major restoration work.
The bridge at Whitley Bay Metro station has been carefully restored to its former glory and went back into use for customers earlier today, Monday, June 8.
The work is the final part of a multi-million-pound renewal scheme at the Grade II Listed station, which has already seen its canopy completely restored.
Works have included structural repairs, strengthening of steelwork, installation of new decking, stairs, handrails, a full repaint, new wayfinding signage, seats, and improved accessibility features.
Whitley Bay Metro station is a key gateway into North Tyneside, which see 1.2 million customer journeys a year.
Metro operator Nexus has restored the station as part of its Asset Renewal Programme, which includes investment in Metro stations, tracks, overhead line and other essential pieces of infrastructure.
Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said: “I’m pleased to confirm that we have completed our restoration work on the footbridge at Whitley Bay Metro station.
“This allows us to get the bridge back into use for our customers and we’re grateful to them for all their patience while it has been closed.
“The project ensures that this historic structure has been restored to its former glory so it can continue to serve our customers for many years to come, dovetailing with the wider renewal work at this station that we completed last year.
“This station has proudly served Metro since the network opened in 1980 and it’s a key gateway into the borough of North Tyneside and it’s coastline.”
Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside Councillor Carl Johnson said: “Whitley Bay Metro station is an important gateway for our residents and visitors to our Blue Flag beaches and award-winning St Mary's Lighthouse.
“It’s fantastic to see this historic footbridge fully restored and back in use. It’s another great example of investment in North Tyneside's transport infrastructure, while preserving the character of a much‑loved station.”
Whitley Bay station gained its listed status in 1986, six years after the Tyne and Wear Metro system was opened.
Gateshead-based G&B Civil Engineering carried out the project on behalf of Nexus.