On Saturday, numerous Newcastle United supporters faced Metro-related challenges while traveling to the West Ham match. Nexus released a statement (provided below) addressing the circumstances. Due to significant maintenance on the Metro network, fans are encouraged to allocate ample time for their journey to the game.
Announcement from Metro operator Nexus:
Newcastle United fans heading to St James’ Park for the West Ham game on Saturday, March 30, are advised to allocate extra time for their journey if they’re using the Tyne and Wear Metro.
Due to ongoing track junction renewal work as part of a £3.4 million project, buses will be replacing trains between Heworth and South Gosforth throughout the weekend from March 29 to April 1. This project is taking place in the Metro’s city centre tunnels under Newcastle.
Nexus, the operator of the Metro, recommends that supporters attending the 12:30 pm kick-off on Saturday should allow additional time for both their journey to the match and their return trip home.
Stuart Clarke, Metro Infrastructure Director, explained: “This marks the second phase of our extensive track junction renewal efforts within our city centre tunnels, ensuring the complete replacement of this crucial infrastructure. We urge customers to plan ahead and factor in extra time for their Metro journeys during the line closure. Additional replacement buses have been arranged to assist customers in reaching their destinations. We appreciate our customers’ patience during these necessary line closures.”
During this period, Metro trains will not stop at Monument platforms 3 or 4; they will pass through without stopping. Customers who usually travel to or from Monument platform 3 or 4 are advised to use Manors or St James station instead.
During the maintenance work, Central Station will be completely closed.
A replacement bus service numbered 900 will operate between Heworth and South Gosforth in both directions. From South Gosforth, the bus will continue to Regent Centre before returning. Some buses may start or end their service outside of these areas; please refer to the replacement bus timetable for specific details.
Additional replacement buses will run on Saturday, and extra Metro trains will operate into Newcastle from the North Tyneside coast via Wallsend. Customers in North Tyneside are advised to travel directly to St James (Monument closed) via Whitley Bay.
A Park and Ride option for £1.20 is available at Four Lane Ends and Northumberland Park for travel to St James via Whitley Bay. The Pop app provides live parking space information.
The Soccer Bus service is accessible from MetroCentre with complimentary parking.
Another Park and Ride option with parking for £1.20 is available at Regent Centre, offering frequent Arriva bus services directly to Haymarket. The Pop app offers live parking space information.
Customers from South Shields have the option to travel via Shields Ferry to North Shields and then catch the Metro from North Shields Metro station to St James’.