I was at a meeting last night, and I can now confirm that the Metro system IS coming. The funding is coming through, and Hartlepool works have already began.
I did say that it would come to light, and DTV will see 15-minutely frequencies. New Stock, New Stations (Teesside Park, James Cook Hosp), and much more. Services will link together at Thornaby, where two routes will run (Darlington - Saltburn & Nunthorpe - Hartlepool). All these services will call at Teesside Park additionally.
Just thought I should shed some light on this.