Bus station revamp plans move forward

Plans to modernise a key Northumberland transport hub have taken a step forward after funding was approved for a series of improvements.

Alnwick Bus Station will undergo the first phase of a transformation project this summer following funding approval from the North East Combined Authority’s Finance and Investment Board.

Officials say the scheme will see improvements to the external areas of the station and the adjacent Morrisons service area, including the repair and replacement of hardstanding, reconfigured bus parking and improved pedestrian routes.

They add new paving, seating and landscaping will also be introduced to create a more welcoming and accessible environment for passengers and visitors.

Alnwick county councillor Martin Swinbank said: “It’s great to see progress continuing at pace – we have been pushing for improvements to the bus station for many years and we're getting closer and closer to work actually starting on-site.”

Fellow Alnwick county councillor Gordon Castle added: ““The bus station is a key gateway into the town for many people and it’s important it’s a safe, modern and welcoming facility.  

“I’m pleased to see the plans continue to head in the right direction, given we have had many meetings over the years to finally get something done.”

The project will also deliver a greener town centre, with plans for 25 new trees alongside rain gardens, ornamental planting and additional landscaping designed to boost biodiversity and improve the overall look and feel of the area.

Reclaimed cobbles from the town’s cobbles project will be reused within the scheme to ensure materials remain part of Alnwick’s historic streetscape.

The funding approval clears the way for Northumberland County Council to formally accept £1.8 million of external investment at a cabinet meeting next month.

The works form part of a wider regeneration programme for Alnwick under the Borderlands Place Programme, which includes improvements to Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery at Northumberland Hall alongside further town centre enhancements.

A second phase is also being designed, focusing on refurbishing and modernising the bus station building itself once the external works are completed.

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for regeneration and chair of Alnwick Place Partnership Group, added: “This is another great milestone on our multi-million pound investment package to regenerate Alnwick town centre.     

“We know how important the bus station is and have been working closely with partners in the town including our local county councillors, the Town Council, Morrisons and Arriva.

“I’d like to thank our colleagues in the North East Combined Authority for their close support and funding. 

“The proposals are also being supported through the Northumberland Borderlands Place Programme and subject to all the necessary planning and funding approvals we look forward to delivery beginning later this year.”

North East mayor Kim McGuinness, who has also announced the arrival of 28 new electric buses for Arriva services operating from Blyth, added: “I want towns across the North East to have modern, safe, and welcoming places for people to begin and end their bus journeys. 

“The improvements to Alnwick Bus Station are part of a wider £21.5 million programme of funding to upgrade stations, stops, and shelters – including in places like Stanley and Gateshead – as we continue to deliver modern transport infrastructure for communities right across our region.” 

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