Quarter-Million Milestone Underscores Early Success
Northern has confirmed that more than 250,000 passenger journeys have been made on the Northumberland Line since public services recommenced on 15 December 2024, marking the first regular passenger operation along the corridor in six decades. The busiest week to date—23 to 30 March—saw almost 27,000 trips, with demand peaking on the day of Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup victory parade when over 8,000 journeys were recorded.
Running between Newcastle and the new stations at Seaton Delaval, Newsham and Ashington, the service covers the full route in approximately 35 minutes. A peak single fare is capped at £3, with off-peak tickets priced at £2.60. Posters at all stations remind customers that travel without a valid ticket can incur a £100 penalty.
Programme Manager Paul Henry commented:
“We’re delighted to have hit this milestone as it shows that people are making the most of these new services. The line is already having a positive impact, allowing locals to access a range of new opportunities on fast and affordable services.”
Ticketing, Capacity Planning and Next Steps
Demand for the recently installed ticket vending machines—especially at Ashington—has necessitated twice-weekly restocking. Northern is urging customers to use its website or mobile app to avoid queues and is promoting Pop Pay As You Go cards for seamless transfers between Northumberland Line services and the Tyne and Wear Metro.
The operator continues to monitor loadings to refine service provision and has announced that all Sunday workings will be formed of four carriages by July 2025. Two trains per hour operate during weekday daytimes and Saturdays; evenings and Sundays currently see an hourly pattern.
Stuart McNaughton, Head of Strategic Transport and Climate Change at Northumberland County Council, noted:
“This marks a landmark for the line and we’d like to thank everyone who has used this fantastic new service over the past four months. The journey figures reflect how important the line is for many people.”
Construction of the remaining stations at Bedlington, Blyth Bebside and Northumberland Park is progressing, with openings scheduled later in 2025. The £298.5 million Northumberland Line project is a partnership between the Department for Transport, Network Rail, Northumberland County Council and Northern.
