The restoration project at Whitley Bay Tyne and Wear Metro station has reached an important stage with the start of the installation of new glazing into the canopy. Its all part of a £5.3 million project to restore the canopy which dates from the Edwardian era and will also see the metalwork full restored to its former glory.
In total there will be 1,296 panes of glass fitted into the canopy – that’s 2,000 square metres of new glazing. The installation of the glass marks the next phase of the project following on from the detailed grit blasting and repainting of the steelwork.
Sarah McManus, Head of Renewals at Nexus, said: “I’m pleased to say that we have started the process of putting in the new glazing as part of the major £5.3m restoration scheme on Whitley Bay station’s canopy. There are close to two thousand new panes of glass going into the canopy, which will help to bring this historic structure back to its former glory.
“We’ve already done a huge amount with the steel work by grit blasting and then repainting it. The Metro station and the businesses located there will continue to remain open throughout the duration of the project, which is scheduled to be completed next spring.
“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.”
Whitley Bay Station is a grade II listed structure (having been listed in 1986) and the new glass is a more robust modern alternative. Glass is also be reinstated across the Metro tracks to provide a more sheltered environment for waiting passengers.
The station remains open throughout the work. Its due to be completed by spring 2025 and it is being completed by Kier.