Why Are the Metro Tunnels Different Shapes?

It's not exactly a detail you would notice at a glance, but once you know, you can't unsee it: the Tyne and Wear Metro tunnels are a decidedly different shape in Gateshead to how they look in Newcastle. Let's find out why.

[@memofromessex]

Finally something on the Metro - I follow a great many transit/public transport TH-camrs and it's like a massive blindspot for all them. The only bad thing about it, is that it goes to Sunderland!
I don't think I've been on the Metro since the 90s when I used to visit my dad's family. I've been up the A1 more times than I can count!

[@edificity]

To be fair, it's a way out of the way for South Easterners / North Westerners. Eventually I figured a local will do it better. Glad you enjoyed!

[@pichael64]

Loved it. In all my (younger) years riding the Metro I do not remember noticing this detail. Great video.

[@MarkHewitt1978]

The amazing thing is that the Metro tunnels were made at all. Imagine making such a proposal today, it would be written off as expensive folly.

[@AndrewN75]

Circular tunnels are also arches, one at the top and one at the bottom. The need to do stabilisation work before constructing the tunnel lining is the main reason.

[@MidtownSkyport]

Can't say I've ever noticed that. Certainly will now though :)

[@liamgardner4185]

I've noticed how different they are, because I have Aspergers and the Metro is an interest of mine.

[@NH-mc7xs]

For some strange reason…? Why WOULDNT you???

[@annettelaurence5716]

Interesting video, I never really thought about before. Thank you for making and sharing this video.🙃

[@Matty12333]

Also the tunnels between Jesmond and Central station contain asbestos

[@tt-ew7rx]

It used to be possible to sit on the front seats and thousands of people must have done that (I've done that numerous times) and yet I don't know anyone who has noticed this (I certainly have not). Really interesting stuff. Unfortunately, with the proposed new trains, even looking out towards the front will become impossible.

[@edificity]

Unfortunately (as I found when taking footage for this video), even when you're sitting at the front of the train the bright interior carriage lighting makes it very hard to see the tunnels ahead - I hadn't noticed until I happened to look past the platform at Gateshead.

[@kevintheyellowthing]

Damn I didnt expect this video to be so quick

[@edificity]

Short and sweet is my motto

[@Cheeseeatingshark]

defo have not noticed it but very cool

[@sjokomelk]

The short answer before even watching the video - They are built using different methods.

[@simonbone]

Because of different ground conditions. It also helps explain why Gateshead station is more voluminous than the underground stations north of the Tyne.

[@TheRealDorran]

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