A significant step forward for the ambitious Metro to Washington project was announced with the appointment of Arup, a global consultancy renowned for its design, engineering, and environmental services, as technical consultants.
Arup will undertake a crucial feasibility study, alongside comprehensive survey and design work, for the proposed stations, bridges, and other vital infrastructure along the new Metro line. This forms a core component of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’s vision to revolutionise local transport and establish a fully integrated network across the region.
The Metro to Washington scheme envisions a 13-kilometre extension to the existing Tyne and Wear Metro system, marking the first new Metro line in over two decades. This expansion will create a new route connecting the cities of Sunderland and Newcastle, passing through the growing town of Washington and one of the largest advanced manufacturing zones in the area. The new line will utilise former railway alignments, including a section of the disused Leamside Line, to link existing stations at Pelaw and South Hylton via Washington.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness stated: “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, expressed his satisfaction: “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 at Arup, added: “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, Mayor McGuinness announced an £8 million investment to kickstart the development of the Metro to Washington project. This initial funding necessitated a feasibility study to underpin the comprehensive business case for the extension.
The Outline Business Case (OBC) for the Metro extension to Washington is a major undertaking that will provide full information on proposed stops and stations, detailed economic impact data, and estimated costings. Following their appointment, Arup will collaborate with Nexus to deliver crucial preparatory work for the new Metro line, which will be instrumental in supporting the Mayor’s efforts to secure Government funding for the project.
Further information about the Metro to Washington project can be found on the Nexus website.
Image credit: Nexus
