Northumberland Line reaches final stop…for now

A North East rail project has reached a significant milestone with the completion of a line reconnecting towns for the first time in decades.

The Northumberland Line has been fully delivered following the opening of Bedlington Station, marking the return of passenger services to the town for the first time in more than 60 years.

Since reopening in December 2024, it has exceeded expectations, with strong passenger numbers underlining demand for improved regional connectivity.

Around 18 miles of track have been renewed, alongside upgrades to signalling and safety improvements at 24 level crossings.

Services now run between Newcastle and Ashington, calling at stations including Northumberland Park, Seaton Delaval, Newsham, Blyth Bebside and Bedlington, with journey times across the full route taking around 35 minutes.

North East mayor Kim McGuinness said: “People in Bedlington have been waiting a long time for this so I’m delighted the station is now officially open – linking people to more opportunities for jobs, education and leisure - changing lives with each and every journey. 

“I know how important rail is for our communities, so we have invested millions to get the project completed – including £10.9 million for a new station at Northumberland Park and money to bring in the Mayor’s Fares – making travel easier and much cheaper for everyone. 

“But we’re not stopping here. 

“We have big plans for rail and we’re cracking on with bringing a new rail line for County Durham along the former Leamside Line and Metro to Washington as well as looking at an extension to Newbiggin – these are exciting times for transport in the North East.” 

Operated by Northern, the line offers regular services throughout the week, improving access to jobs, education and leisure opportunities.

Following its success, plans are now being explored to extend the route further north to Woodhorn and Newbiggin, building on the impact of the completed line.

Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson, who led the celebrations, added: “This is a very special day for the county. 

“Firstly, I’d like to thank the people of Bedlington, they’ve been patiently waiting for their station to open and now it’s their time. 

“For a town that has played such a pivotal role in the history of the railway it is fitting that we celebrate the scheme’s completion here. 

“The Northumberland Line sums up the ambition of the County Council to lead on such game-changing projects, but this scheme would not have been possible without the support of all our partners who made that ambition a reality and my heartfelt thanks goes to them. 

“And that ambition we have continues to burn bright – we want to build on this success and take the line further – and we will do all we can to make that happen.” 

Alex Hornby, Northern’s commercial and customer director, added: “We’re delighted to be welcoming passengers on board at Bedlington station, allowing them to make the most of quick and affordable rail services.      

“We’re so proud to be bringing services back to a town that played a pivotal role in the history of the railway.   

“Bedlington Iron and Engine Works produced parts for George Stephenson’s first locomotive just over 200 years ago and helped to drive the expansion of railway networks across Europe, providing rails and locomotives. 

“Bedlington has again secured its place in railway history. 

“The completion of this station also means the completion of the Northumberland Line between Ashington and Newcastle. 

“It is having such a positive impact on communities in the region – opening up new opportunities to so many people and attracting around 1.3 million customers since it opened.” 

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