Metro overhead lines to undergo emergency repair works at Benton
A busy section of the Metro system connecting Newcastle with North Tyneside is to close for three days next week to allow for emergency repairs to overhead lines.
The overhead lines at the Benton require immediate repair work following a de-wirement incident earlier this year.
The work will take place during a three-day major line closure in both directions between South Gosforth and Shiremoor, Tuesday 26 May to Thursday 28 May.
Metro operator Nexus requires a three-day window to complete the work. The fix will allow the current temporary timetable between South Gosforth and Benton to be removed, meaning early morning and late-night trains can return into service as usual.
The affected line will re-open to Metro services on Friday 29 May.
Metros from South Shields will operate at a usual frequency and will terminate at Regent Centre to change ends. Trains from St James will operate at a 15-minute frequency and terminate and switch ends at Shiremoor before returning to St James.
A replacement bus service will run during the closure, calling at or close to all affected Metro stations. Northern trains on the Northumberland Line, will still call at Northumberland Park to and from Newcastle Central Station, during the closure.
Customers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time when travelling through the affected area.
Stuart Clarke, Infrastructure Director at Nexus, said: “The Metro overhead lines at Benton need to undergo emergency repair work.
“The scope and scale of the project means that we require three full days to get it done. This will allow engineers to get extended access to the overhead lines safely.
“This work needs to happen as soon as possible and I apologise in advance that it’s taking place at short notice.
“Customers are advised to plan ahead. A frequent replacement bus service will be provided during the works.”
To see if this closure affects your journey, visit the Pop App, www.nexus.org.uk or follow Metro’s official X page (formerly Twitter) @My_Metro.