Transport

Whitley Bay Metro Footbridge Reopens After Multi-Million Restoration

The restored footbridge at Whitley Bay's Grade II listed Metro station has reopened, completing a multi-million-pound renewal with new decking, stairs, signage and step-free access.

Whitleybay.live·30 June 2026

If you have been ducking around the hoardings at the Metro station for the last few months, there is good news: the footbridge is back. The restored bridge at Whitley Bay Metro station reopened to the public on Monday 8 June, completing the final phase of a multi-million-pound renewal of the Grade II listed station, as reported by Nexus.

What's Been Done

The footbridge has had a proper overhaul rather than a quick patch-up. The work included structural repairs and strengthening of the steelwork, new decking, stairs and handrails, a full repaint, fresh wayfinding signage and new seating. Crucially for anyone with a buggy, heavy shopping or limited mobility, the scheme has improved accessibility and step-free access through the station.

It follows the earlier restoration of the station's distinctive canopy, meaning one of North Tyneside's busiest gateways has now been brought back to its best. The station has served the Metro since the network opened in 1980, and the building itself has been listed since 1986.

Who Did the Work

The project was delivered for Nexus as part of its Asset Renewal Programme, which reinvests in stations, track and overhead lines across the network. Gateshead-based G&B Civil Engineering carried out the footbridge restoration.

Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said the station "is a key gateway into the borough of North Tyneside and its coastline."

Best for: The footbridge is open now, so the quickest route between platforms and out to Station Road is back in use. Handy if you are heading down to Spanish City or the seafront for the summer.

Why It Matters Locally

For a town that grew up around its railway, a smartly restored station is more than cosmetic. It is the first thing thousands of visitors see when they arrive for the beach, the Spanish City dome or a day on Park View, and it is the daily commute for plenty of residents too. After months of disruption, having the bridge open again is a welcome bit of normality.

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