Metro expansion is a 'priority', says Sunderland City Council

The officials appointed by Sunderland are requesting financing to enlarge the Metro system "as a top priority".

Their task is to compose a letter directed towards the Transport Secretary, appealing for assistance in broadening the provision to Hendon, Grangetown, and Ryhope.

The Sunderland City Council has expressed their backing for the re-opening of the Leamside Line and the expansion of the Metro to Washington.

The members of the council expressed their desire for the enlargement to be financed by the Network North initiative, which was made possible by the £36 billion saved from the cancellation of the Northern segment of HS2.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Liberal Democrat Councillors initiated the effort to secure financial backing.

During a meeting of the entire council, a decision was made to support the expansion of the Metro throughout Sunderland as an essential part of developing our lively city, which is equally as important as the restoration of the Leamside Line.

According to Ciaran Morrissey, a councillor from the Liberal Democrat party and representative for Hendon, it would be advantageous to clearly establish our business plan before seeking investment for our city. By stating our intentions and needs with clarity, we increase our likelihood of achieving our desired results.

In the meantime, Michael Mordey from the Labour Party, who also serves the Hendon ward, stated that the government has not provided support even though the local authority has been backing transportation goals for a significant period.

He expressed that all that is required from them is to allocate us the portion of our financial resources. We possess the strategies and aspirations, therefore, grant us the necessary resources and funding.