Next phase for Tyne & Wear Metro depot reconstruction

Demolition of the Tyne & Wear Metro’s near-century-old depot at Gosforth continues, as its £70 million replacement takes shape at the same site.

Stage two of the scheme involving renewal of six stabling lines, demolition of stabling sheds and part of the main buildings, and a start made on constructing new ones - was complete by the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend.

Stage three of the six-stage process will bring three new stabling lines and further demolition of the old facility, by October.

The reconstruction forms part of the Metro fleet renewal project, under which Stadler is to deliver 46 new trains to replace the system’s original Metrocar vehicles. The first new train is to arrive for testing in November.

Covering 12 acres, the new depot is to comprise inspection roads and pits, cranes, jacks, test facilities and a wheel-lathe. Other features will include a wash-plant to clean train exteriors and other dedicated areas for both daily and periodic deep-cleaning. It is being constructed by VolkerFitzpatrick on behalf of Stadler.

Stadler Programme Director Michael Steiner said that the facility “has been future-proofed to enable it to function effectively for the duration of Stadler’s 35-year contract, which sees us prioritise local people, local goods and local services”.

The old depot dates from 1923.