A £5.3 million project restoring the historic canopy at Whitley Bay Metro Station is entering a new phase as work moves on to focus on the atrium at the front of the building. This comes as some scaffolding starts to come down allowing passengers using the station on a daily basis the chance to see the restored canopy for the first time.
This latest phase is seeing the restoration now take place of the atrium and the two smaller canopies. The atrium ceiling is being renewed with new glazing and lighting installed. The ironwork on the two canopies which run along the station’s frontage is also being restored to its former glory.
During the work so far 1,296 new panes of glass have been fitted in the main canopy (that works out as 2,000 square metres of new glazing). These are modern alternatives which are more robust and will be easier to maintain whilst still maintaining the canopy’s ongoing condition and appearance.
Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said: “We’re now doing additional works on the front of Whitley Bay Metro station, restoring the atrium and the two canopies at the front of the building. The ironwork which included the station’s name was in particular need of work. These works are progressing and customers can already see that it’s a vast improvement on its previous condition.
“The Metro station and the businesses located there will continue to remain open throughout the duration of the project, which is scheduled to be completed next spring. Whitley Bay is a station with a great deal of charm. It has proudly served the Metro since the network opened. This project will ensure that the station is there for locals and visitors to enjoy for many decades to come.”
Whitley Bay Station has been grade II listed since 1986 and dates back to the Edwardian era. Work on restoring its back to its grandeur is expected to be finished in spring 2025.