Workers on the Tyne and Wear Metro have given a major update on the improvement works at Regent Centre, one of the busiest stations on the Green line. The canopy at the front of the station building has now been fully removed, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing renewal project.
Canopy removed piece by piece
The canopy, which covers the station roadway and Metro lines, was carefully taken down by a specialist demolition team during a recent planned line closure between South Gosforth and Airport. Tyne and Wear Metro shared before-and-after images on Facebook showing the dramatic change, with a post beginning "Going...going...gone!"
The work has been taking place over the Summer, with the improvement scheme prompting the temporary closure of the Green Line in both directions from South Gosforth to Airport. More than 1.3 million passengers use Regent Centre each year.
£7.94m renewal project
In March, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and her cabinet awarded £7.9 million for the scheme. The £7.94m renewal project at Regent Centre, delivered by contractor Kier, will transform the Metro station concourse and modernise platforms at the busy transport hub.
Other parts of the project will involve the construction of a new shop unit, new signage around the interchange, and upgrading the platforms and concourse to create a "brighter, more inviting space for passengers." The work follows the installation of new ticket barriers at the station.
From a brighter, more inviting environment to a new retail unit space and clearer signage, the customer experience will be improved throughout the station.
