Metro line to close for a fortnight as upgrade work is carried out through city centre

Nexus, which manages the network, is preparing for an intense programme of work during a 14-day shut down through the centre of Newcastle from Monday, February 15.

The work – which will see 11 stations close – will allow the renewal of up to 18,000 metres of vital overhead power line as part of a £30 million upgrade across the system.

It will also prepare it for the arrival of a £362 million train fleet entering service from 2023 and is being carried out while passenger numbers are lower during the lockdown.

Escalator handrail sanitisers will be installed, using UV light to kill viruses and bacteria, plus maintenance works at stations including Haymarket, Monument, Central Station and Gateshead.

Repairs will be to the platform edge at West Jesmond station and vegetation that could interfere with power lines and track between Ilford road and South Gosforth will be removed.

The lightbulbs at Gateshead Interchange will be changed and painting and maintenance work will be carried out on the footbridge at South Gosforth

Felling footbridge will be maintained and resurfaced, while painting and grafitti removal will be carried out at a number of stations.

Signalling works between South Gosforth and Felling will also be completed.

Major Projects Director at Nexus, Cathy Massarella, said: “There is no good time to shut such a big chunk of the network, and this work can only be undertaken effectively during an extended closure period.

"The current lockdown means that we are able to do the work while passenger numbers are low.

“The power lines in our central area are ageing.

"They face the most wear and tear on a daily basis, and they need to be replaced as soon as practically possible, which is why this work is booked in for next week.

“We will ensure there is a fast and reliable replacement bus service running when the Metro line is shut.

"We advise passengers to plan their journeys in advance before travelling of they need to make an essential journey.”

For more information visit www.nexus.org.uk or by calling the Nexus Customer Service Centre (0191) 20 20 747.

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