The evolving transport landscape of the North East

The North East of England, historically a powerhouse of industry, has a rich transport heritage deeply intertwined with its industrial roots. From the rivers that once served as vital arteries to the railways that transformed the region, the transport landscape has evolved significantly over time.

Prior to the Industrial Revolution, rivers like the Tyne, Wear, and Tees played a pivotal role in the North East’s economy, facilitating the transportation of goods and people. However, the advent of the Industrial Revolution brought about a paradigm shift in the region's transport infrastructure.

The burgeoning coal mining and shipbuilding industries created a pressing need for efficient transport solutions. This need gave birth to the world’s first passenger railway – the Stockton to Darlington Railway – in 1825. This railway not only served the coal industry but also demonstrated the transformative potential of rail travel, inspiring the development of railway networks across the nation and beyond.

In recent decades, the North East has faced challenges related to transport congestion and the need for more sustainable transport options. To address these issues, efforts have been made to improve public transport, promote cycling and walking, and invest in renewable energy sources.

Image credit: www.railwaygazette.com

Under the leadership of Kim McGuinness, the North East Combined Authority (NECA) has renewed its focus on developing the region’s transport infrastructure. McGuinness’ vision centres on creating a greener, more efficient, and accessible transport network. Key goals include:

Retaking control of the bus network
Investing in public transport
Promoting sustainable transport
Connecting communities

The recent announcement of £8.6 million investment in the Tyne and Wear Metro’s expansion into Washington is a testament to the progress being made towards realising this vision. Additionally, the Northumberland Line, a significant railway infrastructure project, is set to open in December after being in development since 2021.

The Northumberland Line will bring passenger trains back into service between Ashington and Newcastle. A priority of Northumberland County Council, the project is supported by a number of key partners, including the Department for Transport (DfT), Network Rail, Transport for the North (TfN), Nexus and Northern Trains Limited.

The Northumberland Line will provide six new stations at Ashington, Blyth Bebside, Bedlington, Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park, with direct journeys between Newcastle and Ashington taking about 35 minutes.

Running services from December 2024, the Northumberland Line is expected to deliver substantial benefits to the region, including:

Economic development
Tourism promotion
Enhanced connectivity
Environmental sustainability

As the region looks forward to the future of transport, we will also be looking back and reflecting on its proud history.

A significant milestone is approaching in 2025, as we commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. National rail operators like LNER, Lumo, and Northern Rail are poised to come together and create a truly memorable celebration of this historic achievement.

Looking back, yet moving forward: that’s definitely the direction of travel for the North East over the coming months.