Metro trains on the Tyne and Wear network have been suspended between Heworth and South Shields, as well as between Heworth South and Hylton, following a failed engineering vehicle. The disruption, announced by Metro operator Nexus shortly before 5:00 am on Wednesday, is expected to last for most of the day.
Failed Engineering Vehicle Causes Disruption
The incident involves an engineering vehicle used for overhead line repair that developed a mechanical issue while positioned at the Pelaw track junction. This junction is a critical point where the line splits towards South Tyneside and Sunderland, meaning both routes are affected.
Stuart Clarke, Infrastructure Director at Nexus, stated: “The vehicle, which we use for overhead line repair, developed an issue while on the Pelaw track junction in the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 1 July. This is a key Metro junction where the line splits between South Tyneside and Sunderland. Unfortunately, the location of the vehicle at this junction means that both lines are affected. We are working hard to get this issue rectified. A specialist contractor is being brought in to assist with the recovery of the vehicle.”
Service Suspension Expected for Most of the Day
Mr Clarke added: “We expect the service suspension to be in place for much of the day. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to customers. Customers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time to make their journeys.”
Trains are running to all other destinations, but services may not adhere to the regular timetable.
Alternative Transport Arrangements
Nexus has arranged a bus replacement service, the 901, running between Heworth and Sunderland with a 30-minute frequency. Buses depart Heworth and Sunderland on the hour and half past the hour.
Local bus services are accepting all Metro tickets, passes, and Pop cards. These include Go North East services between Gateshead, South Shields, Sunderland, and South Hylton, as well as Stagecoach services in the Sunderland area and the 18 route between South Shields and Brockley Whins.
Passengers can also use the Shields Ferry as an alternative. Additionally, Northern Trains is accepting Metro tickets, passes, and Pop cards on rail services between Newcastle, Heworth, and Sunderland.
