In partnership with Nexus, owner and operator of the Tyne and Wear Metro.
Join RIA and Nexus for a one-day working conference, exploring light rail projects in Tyne and Wear. In addition to gaining valuable insight into what is planned, this will be an interactive day of knowledge sharing workshops to engage the supply chain for optimal systems, procurement and delivery in shaping best practice, efficiency and value.
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Light Rail - Opportunities in Tyne & Wear
14 July 2026, Crowne Plaza Stephenson Quarter, Newcastle
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09:00
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Registration, refreshments and networking |
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10:00
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Facilitator’s opening remarks and conference begins
Martin Little, Business Engagement Manager
Railway Industry Association (RIA)
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10:10
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Welcome address
Tobyn Hughes, Director of Transport
North East Combined Authority
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10:25
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Presentation 1: Overview, Objectives, Workstreams, Timelines
Paul Welford, Major Projects Director, Nexus
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10:40
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Presentation 2: Metro to Washington Extension
John Pinkstone, Senior Project Manager, Metro to Washington, Nexus
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11:00
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Presentation 3: MetroGo Resignalling Programme
Tom Hardwick, Head of System Development, Nexus
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11:20
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Refreshments and networking
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11:40
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Breakout session 1: Delegates will be split into two supply chain workshop groups. The groups will be allocated by RIA and Nexus, and delegates will be informed of their group on the day.
- Room 1 – Washington Extension (45 mins)
- Room 2 – MetroGo (45 mins)
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12:30
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Breakout session 2: The workshops will repeat, and delegates will attend the workshop they have not already attended.
- Room 1 – Washington Extension (45 mins)
- Room 2 – MetroGo (45 mins)
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13:15
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Lunch and networking
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14:15
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Presentation 4: Nexus: Operations, Connectivity & Social Value
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director, Nexus
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14:30
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Breakout session 3: Delegates will be split into two supply chain workshop groups.
- Room 1 – Metro Asset Renewals Programme
- Room 2 – Metro Asset Renewals Programme
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15:30
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Summary, conclusions and facilitator’s closing remarks
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16:00
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End of conference
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Projects to be covered include:
Metro to Washington
Metro to Washington is a 13km extension to the Tyne and Wear Metro system, which forms a key part of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’s vision to transform local transport and create an integrated network spanning the region. Construction is subject to further funding, and indicatively planned from 2030.
Ahead of this, Nexus is enthusiastic to welcome suppliers to this preliminary market engagement event, where they can hear more about the scheme and enhance the business case by sharing their procurement insights.
Metro Go
Metro Go is the name for the project that will replace the Tyne and Wear Metro’s signalling system. Endorsed by the Government in July, the project has an ambition to replace the Metro’s signalling system in 2030.
Nexus is pleased to be providing an overview of the project, the emerging procurement strategy and seeking valuable insights from attendees as it finalises those plans.
Metro Asset Renewals Programme
Nexus will provide attendees with an overview on how they maintain and renew their infrastructure. This will include civils and structures, building services, electrical and mechanical, overhead line, permanent way, rolling stock, and signalling systems.
Attendees will be furnished with details of how renewals are prioritised, and what Nexus believes will be the future of renewals and maintenance, including the work coming to market from 2026 through to 2032.
About RIA Member Interest Groups
Member Interest Groups (MIGs) are specialist events run by RIA) to support our members' diverse interests across the rail sector.
Focusing on key areas such as rolling stock, signalling, electrification, environment and sustainability, data and AI, and much more, MIGs provide a platform for learning, discussion, and knowledge-sharing. These half-day, members-only events are hosted across the UK within RIA’s Nations & Regions network, giving members the opportunity to connect on topics essential to their business.
Each MIG features expert speakers from leading organisations, including Network Rail Routes & Regions, Train Operating Companies, Devolved Authorities, Local Transport Bodies, and Major Rail Projects, as well as from the supply chain—from Tier 1 suppliers to SMEs.
Members may also host these events, showcasing their facilities and capabilities to the RIA community.
MIGs address crucial topics, including regulatory updates, standards, new practices, and innovative technologies that impact our members’ operations. However, the primary purpose of MIGs is networking: they are an invaluable chance for members to build connections, share insights, and strengthen collaborations within the rail industry.