Metro to Washington

As the Passenger Transport Executive for Tyne and Wear, Nexus is responsible for the maintenance and development of public transport networks across the region, including the Tyne and Wear Metro. Nexus is undertaking a project, known as Metro to Washington, to extend the Metro system by 13km.

The new route will link with existing stations at Pelaw and South Hylton via Washington and plans include three new stations at Follingsby, Washington North and Washington South. Metro to Washington is a transformative project that will unlock access to highly skilled jobs and opportunities, deliver clean, green, accessible and modern integrated transport, and build a resilient and secure public transport solution to meet demand in Washington in the wider region.

The project is estimated to cost in the region of £900 million and will involve the construction of three new stations, including civils and structures, building services, electrical and mechanical, overhead line and permanent way. Nexus is working with the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority on an Outline Business Case (OBC) for Metro to Washington, planned for submission in March 2027.

Alongside this, we're progressing from feasibility through to outline design with our technical partners, Arup. Proposed contract dates for detailed design and construction are subject to further funding and chosen procurement approach, but construction is indicatively planned from 2030.

The three phases of Metro to Washington are: Phase 1: 2023 - 2027 'Plan' - Feasibility study. Surveys.

Outline designs. Value for Money Assessment.

Phase 2: 2027 - 2030 'Planning' - Planning permission. Contractor procurement.

Cost confirmation. Phase 3: 2030 onwards 'Plans' - Award contracts.

Complete the Detailed design. Deliver the scheme Nexus is undertaking preliminary market engagement to provide an overview of the project and emerging procurement strategy and is seeking valuable insights from the market as it develops those plans.