A Metro bridge which serves one of the networks busiest routes between Newcastle and North Tyneside is to be completely replaced this summer in a £3m project - creating more space for better bus links and road freight to North Shields Fish Quay. The Tanners Bank bridge, which is located on the Metro line between Tynemouth and North Shields, is to be removed to allow an entirely new bridge to be constructed in its place. North Tyneside Council and Nexus are working in partnership to improve this key road into the Fish Quay as part of the councils wider North Shields regeneration plan, as well as making sure the Metro can run smoothly for decades to come.
(Permalink) North Shields Tanners Bank Bridge Tynemouth

The Tyne and Wear Metro has featured in Michael Portillo's latest TV series, Great Coastal Railway Journeys. Portillo, who has become renowned for his railway travel programmes on the BBC, took a journey on Metro during the episode that was broadcast last night, Monday 7 February. He travelled from Central Station in Newcastle up to Tynemouth on the North Tyneside coast. During his journey Portillo marvelled at Metros 60 stations and 40 years of operations, and he spoke fondly of the frontal view of the track afforded to him from the front passenger seats on the Metro train. At Tynemouth station Portillo explained to viewers how the station was originally built in 1882 for the North Eastern Railway and was switched to serve Metro trains in the 1980s. He described the stations Victorian architecture as breath taking. He said: Tynemouth has one of the finest glass roofs in Britain and recently it has been superbly restored and it is a gem. Metro Operations Director, John Alexander, said: We were delighted to welcome Michael Portillo on Metro for his latest television series. He really showcased how important the Metro is to the communities that we serve, and he reflected brilliantly on our proud railway heritage in North East England. A further trip on Metro from South Shields to Central is set to appear later in the series, along with a Tyne crossing on the Shields Ferry. All of the filming took place in August 2021.
(Permalink) Great Coastal Railway Journeys Michael Portillo Tyne and Wear Metro Tynemouth

She was the driving force behind the stunning restoration of Tynemouth Station. And now Ylana First has been honoured with North Tyneside's top award the Freedom of the Borough. More than 40 years ago Ylana took up the fight to save the historic Tynemouth Station, which was at risk of being partly demolished and turned into a platform halt. She helped set up the Friends of Tynemouth Station and launched a petition to save the structure, which dates back to 1882, as well as the introduction of the weekly markets and book fairs.
(Permalink) Tynemouth