The likely future of the Tyne and Wear Metro system will be explained tomorrow (18 September 2008) by its director general.

A massive reinvigoration of the system, growing support for a passenger train service between Newcastle and Ashington and the possible reinstatement of the mothballed Leamside Line are among some of the matters currently exercising rail and business planners in the North East of England.

Bernard Garner, director general of NEXUS which operates the Metro, is to address members of Railfuture North East when he will outline his thoughts about these and other regional railway issues under the title Tomorrow’s Railways.

Mr Garner said: “The Newcastle City fathers showed amazing vision in the 60s and 70s by pushing ahead with Metro.

"Many councils in Britain today are envious of what they perceive as a very effective mass-mover of people.

"But it is imperative we keep Metro up to date so that it continues as a flagship railway. That is why we are embarking on our ambitious reinvigoration scheme.

"Metro, however, does not operate in isolation and so I am keenly interested that adjoining rail projects such as Ashington and Leamside are progressed.

"We must ensure that the North East is afforded a steadily improving rail system giving better connectivity between different communities and easy access to the various urban centres. The economic wellbeing of our region demands nothing less”.

The meeting starts at 19.00 and is open to all. The venue is the Brunswick Methodist Church, Brunswick Place (off Northumberland Street), Newcastle, close to Monument Metro Station. Admission is free.

Councillor Gerry Keating, a member of Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority, will attend along with Mr Garner to answer specific questions about the present and future role of the Authority.

Railfuture North East chairman Martin Murphy said: “I am delighted that Mr Garner and Councillor Keating are to participate in this meeting.

"At a time when there is growing public demand for more and improved rail services it is important we learn at first hand just how key projects such as Metro reinvigoration are being taken forward”.

For further information please contact:-

Martin Murphy 01665 608150

or

Tony Walker 0191 386 4534