The £5.3m project to restore the historic canopy at Whitley Bay Metro station is entering a key phase, with specialist grit blasting on the metalwork.
The Grade II listed structure, which dates back to the Edwardian era, is undergoing major restoration work which will see the glazing replaced and the roof metalwork fully restored to its former glory.
We have erected a vast scaffolding structure across the expanse of the station’s canopy, so that the contractors can work safely above the two platforms and Metro lines.
Whitley Bay Metro station and the three businesses based there remain fully open and that will be the case for the duration of the project, which is set for completion in the spring of 2025.
Head of Renewals at Nexus, Sarah McManus, said: “We are entering an important phase of the multi-million pound refurbishment scheme on the historic canopy at Whitley Bay Metro station.
“The team on site are now carrying out the grit blasting on the metalwork. This will pave the way for the structure to be repaired and repainted.
“Over the last few months customers will have seen the large scaffolding structure taking shape at the station. This structure is needed so that the team can work safely at height above the station which will remain open to customers throughout the works.
“Whitley Bay is a station with a great deal of charm. The station has proudly served the Metro since the network opened. This project will ensure that the station is there for locals and visitors to enjoy for many decades to come.”
There are three businesses based at Whitley Bay Metro station – an artisan café called Dil & the Bear, a craft ale bar called the Ticket Office and a yoga studio called The Yoga Station. All three remain open and signage is in place to show customers that it’s business as usual.
The glass in the station canopy will be replaced with more robust modern alternatives, while there will be strengthening and repainting of the steelwork.
This includes the glazing directly above the Metro tracks which will be reinstated to provide a more sheltered environment for customers.
Whitley Bay station gained its Listed status in 1986, six years after the Tyne and Wear Metro system was opened.
Kier, a leading provider of Infrastructure Services, Construction and Property Developments, is carrying out the work on behalf of Nexus.
Kier, a leading provider of Infrastructure Services, Construction and Property Developments, is carrying out the work on behalf of Nexus.