The historic Northumberland Line is set to reopen next summer when passengers in the North-East will be able to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy greater access to business and education opportunities.
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."
Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said:
“This is the moment we’ve been working towards, and I am so excited we’ve reached this point as we prepare to get trains rolling again through this part of our county.”
Matt Rice, Network Rail’s North & East Route Director said:
“We’re proud to be working with our industry partners on this truly revolutionary project, which will boost economic growth and bring a new lease of life to the region.”
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.
The line’s construction work alone has created almost 100 high-skilled jobs and apprenticeships, demonstrating the benefits it’s already having on the local community.
Congestion and air quality are also expected to plummet as people will be encouraged away from their cars and onto trains.
Read more about this in recent press releases: NCC press release or in the Government's press release.
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