Anger as rail plans scaled back
OFFICIALS have been ordered to scale back plans for the planned Northumberland Line rail line between Newcastle and Ashington.
The cuts, imposed as work on the scheme has barely begun, mean a proposed new station near Bebside, Blyth Valley, is likely to be axed.
Rail campaigners and Northumberland MPS celebrated when Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced in January that the Government would provide £4m towards reopening the Northumberland Line between Newcastle and Ashington.
New stations were planned at Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth Bebside, Newsham and Seaton Delaval. Trains will connect with the Metro at Northumberland Park, in North Tyneside.
But the Government has ordered a review of new rail projects, which it says is designed to cut costs and ensure they can be delivered sooner.
Wansbeck MP Ian Lavery said: “It is unbelievable that as planning permissions are being granted, the Government are already looking to withdraw funding from the project.
“It is little wonder that the local Tories have been so keen to rename the stretch of track the Northumberland Line as if these measures go ahead who can be sure, Ashington, Blyth or Tyne will be served by the rail link.