Plans to restore storm damaged Metro bridge
NexusPlans to refurbish a footbridge at a Grade II listed Metro station have been submitted.
The bridge at Whitley Bay has been closed to the public for almost three years after extensive damage was caused to the station by Storm Otto in February 2023.
The proposed works, including structural repairs to corroded steelwork, repaired or replaced handrails and the introduction of a non-slip deck surface, are set to cost about £870,000 and expected to be completed by spring next year.
Paul Welford, major projects director at Nexus, said: "This is a vital project to ensure that this historic structure is restored to its former glory."
G&B Civil Engineering Ltd told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the work is needed as, without it, "issues with the bridge will continue to threaten both public safety and the bridge's heritage value".
Under the plans, alterations will also be made to the existing staircase supports to bring the footbridge up to modern compliance standards.
The application comes after the completion of other major repairs including the station's canopy in March this year.
The £5.3m project saw the installation of 1,296 new panels of glass and the repair and strengthening of the steelwork.
New lighting, public address systems and CCTV were also installed.
