Northumberland Park Station: Rail Expansion in North East England

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Introduction

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Cabinet have approved £10.9 million in funding to ensure the completion of the Northumberland Park station on the Northumberland Line rail route. This new station in North Tyneside will connect people to the national rail network and provide links with Metro and local bus services.

Funding Approval

Mayor Kim McGuinness announced the £10.9 million in new funding to complete the Northumberland Park station construction. This project aims to transform local transportation, providing North Tyneside passengers with their first national rail station in modern times. The station is designed to be a major interchange, integrating the Northumberland Line with the region’s Metro system, allowing seamless journeys using rail, Metro, and local buses.

Project Benefits

The project intends to make public transport more accessible, with integrated fares available on both the Metro and the Northumberland Line using the Pop card, including a £1 single trip ticket for those aged 21 and under. These investments are intended to enhance connections to jobs, education, and other opportunities. The Northumberland Park Interchange is anticipated to meet the demand for more rail connections and cheaper travel.

Progress and Expansion

The approval follows the upcoming opening of Bebside Station, the fourth new station on the line. Passenger numbers have reached over 650,000 journeys to date. Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, highlighted the line’s popularity and its role in reducing car journeys and CO2 emissions. Northumberland Park Station is a key interchange, connecting Northumberland Line passengers with Metro services.

Regional Impact

Elected Mayor of North Tyneside Karen Clark emphasized the station’s importance for North Tyneside and the wider region, particularly in supporting the economic growth of Cobalt Business Park. The station aims to provide easy access to employment for all, from apprentices to experienced professionals. The Northumberland Line, which began operating in December 2024, connects South East Northumberland with Newcastle City Centre. Additional stations, including Ashington, Seaton Delaval, and Newsham, have already opened.

Conclusion

The North East Combined Authority approved £10.9 million to complete the Northumberland Park station, enhancing rail connections and public transport integration within the region. The Northumberland Line, operational since December 2024, continues to expand, with Bebside Station set to open and passenger numbers exceeding 650,000.

Company Summary

North East Combined Authority: A regional authority focused on transport and economic development.

Northumberland County Council: A local government body responsible for services and infrastructure within Northumberland.

Technology

Pop card: A travel smartcard for use on public transport in North East England.

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