Historic Metro footbridge reopens

A historic Metro footbridge in North Tyneside is back open to the public following major restoration work.  

Nexus has reopened the footbridge at Whitley Bay Metro station following extensive refurbishment work as part of a wider multi-million-pound renewal programme.

The bridge, which forms part of the Grade II-listed station, has undergone structural repairs and steelwork strengthening, alongside the installation of new decking, stairs and handrails.

A full repaint, upgraded wayfinding signage, new seating and improved accessibility features have also been delivered as part of the project.

The restoration marks the final phase of a wider investment programme at the station, which has already seen its historic canopy restored.

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.”

Handling around 1.2 million customer journeys annually, Whitley Bay Metro station is both a key gateway into North Tyneside and one of Metro’s most recognisable historic landmarks, having been granted Grade II-listed status in 1986.

The work was carried out by Gateshead-based G&B Civil Engineering on behalf of Nexus as part of its wider Asset Renewal Programme, which includes investment in stations, track, overhead lines and other essential infrastructure across the Tyne and Wear Metro network.

Councillor Carl Johnson, deputy mayor of North Tyneside, added: “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.”

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