The Tyne and Wear Metro line in South Tyneside has marked 40 years of service since it first launched in 1984.
Around 200 million Metro passenger journeys have been completed on the line, helping people with their employment, education, and leisure activities.
The operating body for Metro, Nexus, says the route was a key part of the Metro story and has been revolutionary for connectivity within the borough.
“We’re delighted to be celebrating the 40th anniversary of our Metro line in South Tyneside,” said Cathy Massarella, the managing director of Nexus. “It’s been transformative for the borough over the last four decades.”
Nexus celebrated the occasion with a special cake cutting ceremony at South Shields Interchange, where free cupcakes were handed out to Metro customers.
South Tyneside Council’s deputy leader, Councillor Audrey Huntley, said: “Sustainable travel is key if we are to achieve our carbon neutral goals, so as we collectively work towards a low carbon future the Metro will remain part of the fabric of our communities for decades to come.”
The South Tyneside Metro line was the final piece of the Metro construction project, which saw the wider system open in stages from August 1980.
Nexus brought Metro to:
- Gateshead in 1981
- South Shields in 1984
- Newcastle Airport in 1991
- Sunderland in 2022
Chair of South Tyneside Chamber of Commerce, Alan Metcalfe, said Metro has been “vital” for local businesses over the last four decades, as it opened up access to more talent.
“I would like to congratulate Nexus on this significant milestone, and here’s to the next 40 years,” said Alan.
Image credit: Nexus
