Parking charges at new Metro stations shelved for now

Transport chiefs are exploring the possibility of introducing new parking fees at a series of Metro stations in both North and South Tyneside.

The seven stations understood to be proposed for possible new parking charges are Cullercoats, Monkseaton, Shiremoor, Whitley Bay, East Boldon, Fellgate, and Hebburn.

Concerns have already been aired about drivers deciding to park on neighbouring residential streets instead, after the prospect of a daily charge of up to £1.80 at Hebburn, Fellgate and East Boldon stations emerged at community forum meetings last month.

While it had been suggested that the fees could be introduced on April 1, when new Metro ticket prices come into force, operator Nexus has confirmed that will not be the case.

The possibility remains under review, however, as Nexus seeks ways to boost its income and close a budget gap that currently leaves it needing to spend around £18 million of its cash reserves by 2029 to balance the books.

Nexus commercial director Helen Mathews said: “We are currently in the process of reviewing the car parking provision on the Tyne and Wear Metro. No final decision has been made yet on what changes we might make and we will be liaising with our local authority partners on this. Further information will be provided in due course.”

A petition with nearly 700 names opposed to the East Boldon plans was presented this week to Gateshead Council leader Martin Gannon, who holds the transport portfolio in the North East Combined Authority, by the prospective Labour election candidates for Cleadon and East Boldon – John Temple and Tina Roche.

Dr Temple said: “Residents in East Boldon already suffer from inconsiderate parking by drivers who use the Metro station and park in the nearby streets. The introduction of parking charges will only make matters worse.” 

Ms Roche added: “When people are struggling with the cost of living, adding another £400 a year to someone’s expenses is outrageous. Furthermore, the imposition of charges for parking at Metro stations will only serve to discourage the use of public transport.”

Under the new Metro fares package agreed by council leaders this month, the daily cost of leaving your vehicle at the park and ride sites at Callerton Parkway, Bank Foot, Regent Centre, Four Lane Ends, Northumberland Park and Stadium of Light stations will rise from £1.50 to £1.80 per day from April 1.

But no new charges at stations where parking is currently free were part of the budget plans signed off by the North East Combined Authority.