Mayor Secures £1.85bn for First New Metro in 30 Years

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In an exciting development for the North East, Mayor Kim McGuinness has recently announced a remarkable £1.85 billion transport investment deal in collaboration with the UK Government. This monumental funding package represents the largest single investment in infrastructure the region has ever seen, signalling a transformative era for transportation in the area.

At the core of this ambitious initiative is the introduction of the first new Tyne and Wear Metro line in over thirty years. This new line will connect Washington, England’s fourth-largest town that currently lacks a rail link, with the wider Metro network. The project is projected to cost approximately £900 million and is designed to link Washington to key employment hubs, notably the UK’s largest advanced manufacturing zone situated near the Nissan car plant. With detailed planning already underway, the new line is slated to become operational by 2033, promising to be a game changer for local commuters.

Mayor McGuinness, who actively lobbied Chancellor Rachel Reeves for this crucial funding, expressed her enthusiasm for the deal, describing it as “game changing.” She believes that this investment is a significant leap forward in realising her vision for the Angel Network—a fully integrated, sustainable public transport system aimed at enhancing economic growth, fostering housing development, and improving access to opportunities throughout the North East.

In her remarks, Mayor McGuinness stated:

“When I was elected Mayor, I promised voters I would extend the Metro, and now, twelve months on, I am thrilled to announce that this will indeed happen.”

“We can finally move forward with the construction of the first new Metro line in thirty years, creating a vital link for Washington to the rail network and connecting tens of thousands of individuals to new jobs and opportunities in our burgeoning advanced manufacturing sector.”

“This marks a pivotal moment for our region, heralding the dawn of a truly world-class integrated public transport network. We can look forward to safer walking and cycling routes throughout our towns and cities, improved local roads, and a significant acceleration towards our electric vehicle future.”

“I committed to making the North East a hub of genuine opportunity and delivering quality integrated transport that serves everyone. This funding enables us to create the Angel Network, which will feature buses under public control, an increase in punctual electric buses along priority corridors, and seamless contactless travel whether you are on a bus, Metro, or train.”

“We will enhance accessibility and safety for women and girls through upgrades to railway stations, interchanges, and bus stops, making walking and cycling routes more attractive, while also establishing the best electric vehicle charging network in the country.”

The £1.85 billion funding package is part of the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS2) for the period 2027–2032 and will also finance several other critical projects, including:

• Comprehensive road maintenance initiatives across local authorities.
• Installation of hundreds of new electric vehicle charging points.
• Development of safer, high-quality walking and cycling routes.
• Implementation of bus priority measures to enhance journey reliability.
• Integration of contactless travel across buses, Metro, and rail services.
• Upgrades to accessibility and safety at transport interchanges.

This funding marks a cornerstone of the North East Combined Authority’s new “Integrated Settlement,” a devolved financial stream committed to supporting transport, housing, skills, and employment as part of the Mayor’s New Deal for North East Workers. This approach aims to create a more cohesive and sustainable environment for residents while bolstering economic opportunities.

Moreover, with anticipated contributions from the private sector to supplement the Metro expansion, this deal signifies a bold step towards a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous North East. The implications of this transformative investment extend far beyond mere transport improvements; they encompass economic revitalisation, enhanced accessibility, and a commitment to sustainability that aligns with our shared goals of achieving net-zero emissions.

As we move forward, the integration of sustainable transport solutions will not only facilitate the movement of people but also contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. The vision laid out by Mayor McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority aligns seamlessly with our mission at the Net Zero News Network, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in all sectors, particularly in transportation.

In conclusion, the announcement of this transformative £1.85 billion investment is a beacon of hope for the North East, paving the way for a more integrated and sustainable future. As we celebrate this milestone, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting initiatives that drive us closer to achieving net-zero emissions while fostering economic growth and social equity. The journey towards a sustainable future is one we must all embark on together, and with this substantial investment, the North East is poised to lead the way.