THE Government has announced a multi-million pound investment into Northumberland.
Transport Secretary Grant Schapps has launched a £794 million investment to boost rail links, and £34 million is coming to the North-East.
The new funding will be used to rapidly progress plans to reopen the Northumberland Line between Newcastle and Ashington, which closed to passengers in 1964 as part of the Beeching cuts.
The announcement formed part of the Government's commitments to "build back better" after the coronavirus pandemic and level up transport infrastructure across the country.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:“Restoring railways helps put communities back on the map and this investment forms part of our nationwide effort to build back vital connections and unlock access to jobs, education and housing.
“Returning these routes to their former glory, and progressing work to reopen even more lines and stations, shows our commitment to levelling up journeys across the country as we build back better from the pandemic.”
The investment on the Northumberland line will fund preparatory works, including land acquisition, detailed design work and early site works.
Plans for the project include new stations at Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth Bebside, Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park, in North Tyneside, as well as upgrades to the track and changes to level crossings where bridges or underpasses may need to be built.
Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said:"This is absolutely fantastic news and means we can now finalise our plans to deliver this transformational project for both Northumberland and the wider region.
"The Northumberland Line will bring a huge boost to the area in terms of economic growth, housing, employment and education opportunities, as well as providing a fast and efficient new transport link between the south east of the county and Tyneside."
The news has also been welcomed by Tyne Valley councillors. While the line will not directly reach the district, it's hoped that the knock-on effect of the investment will help create jobs for local residents.
Coun. Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said: "I am delighted that the Government has provided this massive investment, which will help to create a large number of jobs during the construction phase and in when operational.
"These may be of interest to Tynedale residents and local companies. There will also be huge benefits for the environment."
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