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Nexus reveals £35m modernisation plans for Tyne and Wear Metro in 2017

The Tyne and Wear Metro system will benefit from a £35m investment in modernisation this year, according to public transport operator Nexus.

The work, which will concentrate on rejuvenating the Metro’s ageing infrastructure, forms part of the £350m Metro all change modernisation programme, the scheme to secure Metro’s long term future over eleven years.

Now in its sixth year, this year’s modernisation project will consist of track replacement work between Wallsend and St James, as well as between Longbenton and Northumberland Park.

2017 will also witness the start of a five year scheme to replace 300km of overhead power lines, whilst the installation of a new Metro bridge over Killingworth Road will complete the key improvement plans.

Nexus disclosed that it remains in discussion with the Government over funding for its plans to invest £537m in a new train fleet.

Raymond Johnstone, Director of Rail and Infrastructure, said: “We are pressing on with modernisation projects worth a total of £35m in 2017 as we continue to secure the long term future of the Tyne and Wear Metro system.

“There are some major schemes, not least the track the replacement work, which will mean some disruption to passengers while we carry out the work.

“However, this will mean that we have a Metro system for many more generations to come. The investment is absolutely vital so that we replace ageing pieces of the infrastructure, which will be of benefit to the 39 million passengers who travel on Metro every year.”

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