Metro announces freeze on fares

Fares on the Tyne and Wear Metro are to remain the same in 2010, following a price freeze.

Nexus, which owns and manages the system, has had the proposal approved by the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority (ITA).

The move applies to single, return, monthly, annual and child tickets, as well as the Shields ferry service.

The chairman of the authority said Metro was vital for the local economy, especially city centre businesses.

Councillor David Wood added: "At a time when the economy is struggling it is very important Metro plays its part in making it as easy as possible for people to get around."