13.03.17
£6m Newcastle Central Metro station refurbishment complete
The £6m project to revamp Newcastle Central Metro station has been completed, adding improvements to facilities for passengers at one of the north east’s major metro stations.
Used by around 5.3 million people a year, the works have taken 18 months and have given the station a new colour scheme whilst also making improvements to disabled access, information displays and waiting facilities.
The refurbishment was funded by a £3.5m contribution from the £350m Metro all-change modernisation programme, as well as around £2.5m from the North East Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund.
Lead member for transport on the North East Combined Authority and leader of Newcastle City Council, Nick Forbes, said: “People in Newcastle now have a regional gateway to be truly proud of. The mainline railway station has already been transformed, and now the Metro station scheme is complete, and it looks fantastic.
“Newcastle Central Metro station now has a vibrant new look that is going to give a great first impression to the millions of visitors we see flocking into the city every.”
Newcastle Central MP, Chi Onwurah, added that the key station in the city centre has been “completely transformed with the active participation of passengers”.
“Its new-look complements the redevelopment of the mainline train station. I’m pleased to say people arriving in Newcastle will get a great first impression of our great city form these revamped facilities,” she added.
Raymond Johnstone, director of rail and infrastructure at Nexus, also commented: “As part of our £350m modernisation programme we are updating Metro stations right across Tyne and Wear, and Newcastle Central Station is the latest one to see the benefits of that investment.
“The concourse and the platforms have been totally transformed and we have improved accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
“The station’s smart new appearance makes it a great place to welcome people into our region.”
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