Nexus have revealed more details about the proposed extension of the Tyne and Wear Metro to Washington ahead of a series of public engagement events. This is the first time that detailed plans have been made public, including how the line will be connected to the existing network as well as locations of the proposed stations.
The 13km extension – which will utilise part of the former Leamside line – will play a critical role in North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ vision to transform local transport and create an integrated network spanning the region.
When it opens – planned to be 2033 – it will be the first new Metro line for 30 years. It will provide a new route between Sunderland and Newcastle through Washington using the northern section of the Leamside line. There is also a separate business case for the southern part of the line which would see a heavy rail service introduced.
The route will leave the current Metro network at Pelaw where a new track will need to be installed to allow trains travelling onto the extension to join the network. From there it will head onto the Leamside line with the first station set to be at Follingsby, located south of Follingsby Lane. Its also hoped to build a Park and Ride site here.
The next station will be at Washington North, located at the intersection of the former Leamside Line and the A1290. The route then goes on to Washington South. This station is to the south of the former Washington station and will be near to the Fatfield, Columbia and Teal Farm districts of the town.
Then at South Hylton there are two options being considered as permanent vehicle access needs to be retained for properties to the north of the railway.
Kim McGuiness said: “I promised we’d extend the Metro to Washington and now the next stage in that plan is underway – three brand new stations for the first time in 30 years.
“We’re doing this because you told us you want more affordable, publicly-controlled transport across the North East. Now is the time to have your say on how these plans develop.”
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus, said: “This is a really significant moment for the Metro to Washington project as the proposed route and station locations are shared publicly for the first time.
“This will be the first new Metro line for 30 years, providing a new route between the cities of Sunderland and Newcastle through Washington.
“We are committed to keeping the public up to date on the plans. A series of 14 public engagement events will now get underway over the coming weeks, giving people the chance to come along, ask questions, and give us their views. We look forward to seeing as many people there as possible.
“If people are struggling to get there in person, there is an also an option to provide feedback online through the Nexus website.
“This will be vital as we shape the plans further, ahead of construction getting underway.”
An outline business case for the project will be submitted to the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority in early 2027. It’s then hoped that after approval construction would start in 2030 with the first services running in 2033.
- For full details on the proposals and the chance to provide feedback visit https://nexus.org.uk/who-we-are/projects/metro-to-washington/