Northumberland Line set for 2024 reopening to passenger trains

THE GOVERNMENT has confirmed that the 18-mile Northumberland Line between Newcastle and Ashington will reopen to passenger traffic in 2024 – the second route due to be brought back into use as part of the Government’s Restoring Your Railways scheme.

The project, promoted by Northumberland Council, is being delivered in conjunction with Network Rail and train operator Northern.

Six new stations are being constructed at Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth Bebside, Newsham, Seaton Delaval, Northumberland Park. Journey times between Newcastle Central and Ashington are expected to be about 35 minutes.

The route is currently used as a freight-only line and the freight traffic is expected to continue using it. Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson said: “We are delighted to have reached this major milestone, which gives the green light for the main construction works to start.

“This is such a transformational scheme, which will bring benefits for residents, businesses and visitors for generations to come.

“We have been working so hard over recent years to make this scheme happen, getting all the necessary planning and stations approved and preparing the line for the major works.

“This is the moment we’ve been working towards and I am so excited we have reached this point as we prepare to get trains rolling again through this part of our county.

“Not only will the restoration of passenger services reconnect communities and improve connections, but it will also boost the region’s economy through improving access to jobs.” Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Communities in Northumberland can get ready for regular train services that will better connect people to jobs, education and opportunities, while growing our economy. “Restoring lost railway connections will drive tourism, boost local business opportunities and encourage investment across our regions, which is why I’m pleased to say that we are on track to reopen this historic line next summer.”

The reopening to passenger services of the Northumberland Line follows the restoration of the Dartmoor Line between Exeter and Okehampton in November 2021 to passenger services operated by GWR.

The reopened line has exceeded all predictions in relation to ridership levels and has been deemed a very successful initiative.