There is also the Magpie Mover scheme, which is a £10 (I think) for the season.
Obviously, for those coming from Northumberland or West Gateshead/Co Durham, the Sage HQ and the Metrocentre is the first thing you come to in the way of a decent public transport hub, with free parking - the bonus of getting a Soccerbus, it is cheaper than getting a say 10 or 45 for the entire journey.
There will be some who park at Blaydon or Cramlington and use a bus or train for the final leg, but need to pay essentially a premium for doing so.
Agree entirely with the road infrastructure comments at the Metrocentre though.
As for park n rides, did anything ever come of the rumoured site next to the Angel?
RE: Go North East