Platform Two at Jesmond Metro station will remain closed until at least mid-January while repair work is carried out following damage caused by one of the Metro fleet’s new trains.

The damage occurred on December 29, when the automatic sliding step of an empty train from the new fleet struck the platform edge as it passed through Jesmond.

In a live update, Metro operator Nexus confirmed that urgent repair work is now under way. Services will continue to run through Jesmond using Platform One, and Nexus has advised passengers who normally use Platform Two to make alternative journeys through neighbouring stations.

Ben Brooks, Head of Engineering at Nexus, told JesmondLocal: “While we carry out essential repairs to the platform edge, Platform Two at Jesmond Metro station will remain closed until mid-January.

“The current temporary closure is a precautionary step to keep everyone safe. We’re sorry for the ongoing inconvenience caused to customers.”

Brooks added: “The damage to the platform was due to the automatic sliding step on one of our new trains coming into contact with the platform edge, as the empty train was being returned to Gosforth depot. We are working closely with Stadler to investigate this isolated issue further. The roll out of the new Metro fleet will continue.”

To minimise disruption, Brooks advised that passengers who need to exit at Platform Two should travel on to West Jesmond Metro station, change platforms, and then travel back southbound to Jesmond.

Passengers who want to board Metro services at Platform Two should instead travel from Platform One towards Haymarket Metro station and change platforms there.

Brooks added: “The introduction of the new trains is the biggest and most complex project in the history of Metro. The current phase is the most challenging of any fleet transition project. This is why we are taking a careful and phased approach to fleet introduction to ensure we can monitor, amend, and correct any issues.”

Additional staff will be deployed at West Jesmond station during the first week of the new school term to assist customers with travel.

Matthew Burton, a regular commuter who uses Jesmond station several times a week, described the diversion as “frustrating”. He said: “It’s not ideal at busy times, but I’m glad they’ve closed the platform rather than rushing it back into use when it could be dangerous.”

The partial closure is expected to affect commuters, students and school pupils returning after the Christmas break. Jesmond station, located just off Osborne Road and a short walk from local shops and cafes, is one of the busier stops on the network, particularly during peak commuting hours and term time.

Passengers can find the latest updates on Jesmond Metro station maintenance and service schedules through the Pop App, the Nexus website, and on the Metro’s X page @My_Metro.