Nexus has revealed the proposed route and station locations for the long-awaited extension of the Tyne and Wear Metro to Washington, marking a major milestone in what will become the network's first new line in three decades.
The plans, published as part of a new public engagement programme, set out proposals for three new Metro stations at Follingsby, Washington North, and Washington South, alongside a 13km extension that would reconnect Washington to the rail network for the first time since the closure of the former Leamside Line.
The route would connect into the existing Metro network at Pelaw and South Hylton, crossing the River Wear via the historic Victoria Viaduct before travelling beneath the A19 and into Washington.
The project forms a key part of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness' ambition to create a fully integrated public transport network across the region. Subject to approvals and funding, construction could begin in 2030, with the first Metro services expected to operate on the route by 2033.
Speaking about the latest development, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said:
"I promised we'd extend the Metro to Washington and now the next stage in that plan is underway - three brand new stations for the first time in 30 years.
"We're doing this because you told us you want more affordable, publicly-controlled transport across the North East. Now is the time to have your say on how these plans develop."
Nexus Managing Director Cathy Massarella described the publication of the route and station proposals as a landmark moment for the project.
“This is a really significant moment for the Metro to Washington project as the proposed route and station locations are shared publicly for the first time.
“This will be the first new Metro line for 30 years, providing a new route between the cities of Sunderland and Newcastle through Washington.
“We are committed to keeping the public up to date on the plans. A series of 14 public engagement events will now get underway over the coming weeks, giving people the chance to come along, ask questions, and give us their views. We look forward to seeing as many people there as possible.
“If people are struggling to get there in person, there is an also an option to provide feedback online through the Nexus website at nexus.org.uk/metrotowashington.
“This will be vital as we shape the plans further, ahead of construction getting underway.”
Three New Stations Planned
Under the latest proposals, Follingsby Station would be located south of Follingsby Lane and could become the preferred location for a new park-and-ride facility, helping to reduce congestion on key routes into Newcastle and Sunderland.
Washington North Station would be constructed at the intersection of the former Leamside Line and the A1290, improving connectivity to Sulgrave and linking directly with local bus services. Plans would also see the A1290 realigned to accommodate the station.
Further south, Washington South Station would sit near Fatfield, Columbia and Teal Farm, with a new accessible footbridge maintaining east-west pedestrian access across the railway corridor.
Historic Infrastructure to Play Key Role
One of the most notable aspects of the scheme is the proposed reuse of the iconic Victoria Viaduct, allowing Metro services to cross the River Wear on a twin-track railway while preserving the historic structure.
After crossing the viaduct, the preferred southern alignment would take the Metro towards South Hylton using a route designed to avoid ancient woodland, minimise the need for new road bridges and reduce impacts on existing bridleways.
The railway would pass beneath the A19 using an upgraded underpass capable of accommodating both Metro services and bridleway users.
South Hylton Options Under Consideration
Two shortlisted options are being considered for integrating the extension with the existing Metro line at South Hylton while maintaining road access for local residents.
Option A would create a new road link between Railway Terrace and St Luke's Road through a tunnel beneath the station area.
Option B would see improvements to the existing underpass at Keelman's Road, providing access via Keelman's Lane and Claxheugh Road.
Both options would involve relocating South Hylton station further east to improve accessibility between platforms.
Public Consultation Underway
Nexus is hosting 14 public engagement events across the region, providing opportunities for residents, businesses and stakeholders to review the proposals and help shape the next stage of development.
Feedback gathered through the consultation process will inform an outline business case due to be submitted to the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority in early 2027.
The Metro to Washington scheme would utilise the northern section of the former Leamside Line, while separate plans are being developed to restore the southern section for heavy rail services, creating wider regional connectivity benefits across the North East.
Image credits: Nexus
