‘Game-changing’ transport deals confirmed

Two landmark North East transport deals have been confirmed, with regeneration bosses promising they will unlock fresh opportunities for travel and connectivity.

In a “game-changing” £1.85 billion deal, North East mayor Kim McGuinness has secured Government funding to deliver the first new Metro line in more than 30 years. 

The new line will connect Washington – currently England’s fourth-largest town without a rail link – to the wider network, with trains expected to run by 2033. 

And officials across Tees Valley are also cheering nearly £1 billion support, which they say will “unlock dozens of transport projects”. 

Headline work will include new rail stations at Teesside Park, South Bank and Teesside International Airport, an autonomous tram pilot and a third platform at Middlesbrough Station. 

Meanwhile, mayor McGuinness says the new Metro line will serve tens of thousands of homes and link residents to major employment zones around the Nissan car factory and the International Advanced Manufacturing Park.

The investment will also support road maintenance, new electric vehicle charging points and safer walking and cycling routes as part of the proposed ‘Angel Network’ – a contactless transport system across the region.

Mayor McGuinness said: “I am thrilled we can now get on with building the first new Metro line for 30 years, at last connecting Washington to the rail network and linking tens of thousands of people to new jobs and opportunity in our growing advanced manufacturing sector.

“This is a game-changing moment for the people of our region, who can look forward to a truly world-class integrated public transport network, safer walking and cycling routes throughout our towns and cities, better local roads and a massive acceleration on our journey to an electric vehicle future.”

Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, added: “We have waited a long time to see Metro reach Washington with a direct line from the city centre.

“This new Metro line will transform public transport for people living in Washington and connect people from surrounding areas to the jobs we are creating around Nissan and the neighbouring International Advanced Manufacturing Park.”

In Tees Valley, a new bus station for Middlesbrough and enhancements across nine major bus corridors are included, alongside long-term plans for improved A19 crossings, a Darlington Northern Link Road and better freight access between Eaglescliffe and Northallerton.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “Unlocking another £1 billion of funding will allow us to bring the better roads, stations and transport links we deserve. 

“This will not only make life easier every day for more people, but boost trade and supercharge the huge investments and projects we have coming up.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen unveiling improvements in the £978 million package in 2024

Councillor Steve Harker, leader of Darlington Borough Council and cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, added: “This is very good news for the Tees Valley.

“We've a wide range of projects planned for our road and rail network, and there is also plenty lined up to improve infrastructure for buses and those who get around by bike.”

Both funding streams fall under the Government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, and are scheduled to be delivered between 2027 and 2032.

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