AN architectural practice has won a £750,000 contract to refurbish a railway station.

Waring and Netts, of Newcastle, beat competition from five practices with its plan for Pelaw Metro station, near Gateshead.

Judges were impressed by the design and hope the station will become a local landmark.

Group leader and project architect for the scheme Andy Roberts said: "There have been some exciting developments in transportation design of late, such as the Jubilee Line, which is part of the London Underground system, and this has guided our design style.

"Quite apart from making a unique contribution to the local streetscape, the new station features improved passenger facilities, as well as improved disabled access in accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act."

Mike Parker, director general of Nexus, said: "This much-needed work at Pelaw will greatly enhance the station and improve the customer experience."