North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ ambitions to open new rail routes in the region are taking a step forward with technical consultants appointed to provide specialist design work for the Metro to Washington project.
Arup, will conduct a feasibility study along with survey and design work for the stations, bridges and other key infrastructure.
Metro to Washington is a proposed 13km extension to the Tyne and Wear Metro system which forms a key part of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ ambition to transform local transport and create an integrated network spanning the region.
It would be the first new Metro line for more than 20 years providing a new route between the cities of Sunderland and Newcastle through the growing town of Washington and one of the largest advanced manufacturing zones.
Using former railway alignments, including part of the Leamside Line, Metro to Washington will link existing stations at Pelaw and South Hylton via Washington.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “I said that I will bring the Metro to Washington and I’m delivering on that promise.”
“I’m delighted we have reached another major milestone with the appointment of Arup, who will now provide specialist design work for the project.”
“Last summer, I announced £8m to kick-start work to bring the Metro to Washington which is a major part of my ambition to re-open the whole Leamside rail route through County Durham and Sunderland . I am determined to transform our transport network to change the lives of local people for generations to come.
“This project will be the biggest expansion of the Metro for more than 20 years – and it will be just as transformative as the Sunderland line was when it first opened back in 2002. This is such an exciting time for rail in the North East as we see these projects come to life.”
Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said: “We’re delighted to appoint Arup to work on this important next stage of the Metro to Washington project.
“Arup has a first class track record in providing design consultancy for large infrastructure projects. Their role will be absolutely critical in putting together a feasibility study and design work for the proposed new Metro line.”
Rachel Hurdman, Associate Director, Arup, said: “The investment in transport capability across the North East reflects a shared vision for regional growth, transforming connectivity through an integrated network and enhancing access for local communities.
“Building on Arup’s expertise in rail and infrastructure development, we look forward to working with Nexus to shape a deliverable, sustainable programme that meets the needs of communities today and for generations to come.”
In July 2024, the Mayor announced £8m to kickstart the development of Metro to Washington, with a feasibility study required to underpin the business case for the project.
The Outline Business Case (OBC) for the Metro extension to Washington is a major project which will provide full information on proposed stops and stations, economic impact data and estimated costings.
Following the appointment, Arup will now work with Nexus to deliver key preparatory work for the new Metro line, which will support the Mayor as she works to secure Government funding for the project.
Image credit: Nexus
