Next month, work on the Tyne & Wear Metro will begin and close the busiest lines through the centre of Newcastle and Gateshead for 2 consecutive weeks.
The modernisation work will see overhead power lines replaced and get the network ready for the introduction of the new train fleet.
The line closure will affect services between Heworth and Regent Centre / Four Lane Ends for 14 days.
From Monday 15th February until Sunday 28th February there will be no Metro services on those lines.
Buses will replace the Metro and these will call at or near the stations on the routes which are affected by the closure.
18,00 metres of overhead wires will be replaced during the work and sections of the overhead wire in the tunnels in the ciry centre will also be replaced.
Extra trains between Four Lane Ends via Whitley Bay to St James will run to provide alternative routes.
A total of 10 stations will be closed while the work is carried out:- South Gosforth, Ilford Road, West Jesmond, Jesmond, Haymarket, Monument north/south platforms only, Central Station, Gateshead, Gateshead Stadium and Felling.
Major Projects Director at Nexus, Cathy Massarella, said: “We are investing £30m in Metro's overhead lines. This is a once in a generation piece of modernisation work. It will mean we can deliver a high-quality Metro service for many years to come and it gets our network ready for the introduction of the new trains.”
“As part of this renewal programme we have to carry out a two-week major line closure on the busiest lines that run through the heart of Newcastle and Gateshead.”
“There is no good time to shut such a big chunk of the network, and this modernisation work can only be undertaken effectively during an extended closure period. I apologise to our customers in advance for the inconvenience this will cause.”
“Overhead wires are critical for the Metro system to operate. They are where the trains draw their high voltage power from.”
“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 February.”
“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.”
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This is going to cause mayhem for those travelling a long distance as I travel from blakelaw to wardley every day now I’m stuck and going to cost more money for me sorry but its disgraceful and annoying.