Plans to restore Whitley Bay Metro footbridge to start next year
Renovations costing £870,000 are intended to bring the historic bridge back into use
Restoration work on the footbridge at Whitley Bay Metro station, which has been closed to the public for nearly three years, is set to begin next year.
The project, led by G&B Civil Engineering Ltd, will involve structural repairs to corroded steelwork, updated handrails, and the addition of a non-slip deck surface. The refurbishment, estimated to cost £870,000, will bring the footbridge back into use by spring 2026.
The footbridge has been out of action since Storm Otto caused extensive damage to the station in February 2023. As part of the restoration, changes will also be made to support structures for the staircase to meet modern compliance standards.
“There are significant issues with the structure, including corrosion, fatigued coatings and deterioration, that pose risks to public safety as well as the heritage of the bridge,” said G&B Civil Engineering Ltd. “These works aim to extend the lifespan of the footbridge without altering its historic footprint.”
The announcement follows earlier restoration works on the station, including canopy repairs completed in March this year. The £5.3 million canopy refurbishment involved strengthening the steelwork, replacing 1,296 glass panels, and installing lighting, CCTV, and public address systems.
Paul Welford, major projects director at Nexus, commented: “I’m pleased to confirm we’re almost ready to start our restoration work on the footbridge at Whitley Bay Metro station in January.
“This is a vital project to ensure that this historic structure is restored to its former glory so that it can continue to serve our customers for many years to come.
“It follows on from the hugely successful work that we have carried out to renew the station canopy. Whitley Bay is a station with a great deal of charm. It has proudly served Metro since the network opened in 1980. This latest phase of works will allow us to get the station footbridge back in use for customers, dovetailing with wider renewal work at this station. A huge amount of work will be taking place, which includes the strengthening of the structure and the installation of new stairs and handrails.”