We’ve listened to feedback and will be providing extra security on board the majority of evening services on the Tyne and Wear Metro. That’s the message from Nexus as they announce increased security teams across the network after 1900 each and every night in a bid to combat ani social behaviour.
The extra security presence will bring it to the highest level ever seen on the network and aims to provide better customer reassurance that the Metro is safe to use at all times of the day. Funding for the security will be coming from Metro revenue together with a contribution from the Safer Streets ASB and transport initiative provided by the Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness’ office. It will be in place from the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.
Martin Kearney, Managing Director of Nexus, said: “This represents a major change in how we operate, providing reassurance and support to our customers and the Metro team. We will provide a security presence on the majority of Metro services from 19:00 every evening. We are grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner and local authorities for their support. By working together we can ensure public transport is safe for everyone. This commitment will take the security presence on Metro to its highest ever level.
“The security team will work alongside the dedicated police patrols we get from the Northumbria Force, and from the British Transport Police on the Sunderland line. We have listened to what customers and our Metro team have asked for. People said there needed to be a greater visible presence of security on board the Metro trains at night and we are delivering on that.”
Kim McGuinness, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “Reliable, affordable and crucially, safe – that’s what people tell me they want from our public transport services and this is an example of how, together, we are delivering on this. Our Metro connects our communities and links people to opportunities, and it’s so important that people feel safe and comfortable when on board. These enhanced security measures are a welcome boost supporting our continued policing efforts and other Safer Transport Northumbria initiatives I’m funding such as youth engagement and focused days of action. Sustainable transport options like the Metro need investing in to make travel safer in the North East and I will keep fighting for this because it matters to local people and will help our region thrive.”