Passengers urged to plan as engineering takes place in the North East

Network Rail's upcoming track upgrades on the Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed route are set to significantly improve the railway system.

On Wednesday, June 21, these essential works will focus on enhancing the track near Longhirst level crossing in the vicinity of Morpeth and at Widdrington, located just south of Alnmouth.

The primary objective of this project is to create a modern and reliable railway network, ensuring smoother operations for train services.

To align with recent travel trends, Network Rail has carefully chosen a mid-week schedule for this maintenance work.

Recent data from LNER reveals that Fridays and Sundays have become the preferred days for long-distance, high-speed travel to and from London King's Cross. By opting for a Wednesday, Network Rail aims to minimise disruptions and inconvenience for passengers, impacting fewer travelers compared to weekends.

It's important to note that major service changes will be implemented on Wednesday, June 21, with minor adjustments occurring on the evening of Tuesday, June 20, and in the early morning on Thursday, June 22.

Passengers are strongly advised to stay informed by checking the latest updates through National Rail Enquiries or contacting their respective train operators. Additionally, it's recommended to allocate extra time for your journey to account for any unforeseen circumstances.

During the track upgrades, buses will substitute the majority of rail services between Newcastle and Berwick-upon-Tweed/Alnmouth and Chathill. However, LNER services will continue to operate between London King's Cross and Newcastle, as well as between Alnmouth and Scotland. A limited number of services will follow an alternative route between Newcastle and Edinburgh.

For detailed information specific to each operator, please refer to the following:

CrossCountry:

Wednesday only: Buses replace trains between Newcastle and Berwick-upon-Tweed.

LNER:

Wednesday only: Trains will run between London King's Cross and Newcastle and then between Alnmouth and Scotland. Coaches will run between Newcastle and Alnmouth, calling at Morpeth. A small number of services will run on a diversionary route between Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Lumo:

Tuesday: The 20:27 London Kings Cross to Edinburgh service will terminate at Newcastle.

Wednesday: All services will operate between London Kings Cross and Newcastle only. A limited replacement bus service will run between Newcastle and Edinburgh. Additionally, the 11:23 Edinburgh to London Kings Cross service will be retimed to run an hour later than normal.

Thursday: The 06:23 Edinburgh to London Kings Cross service will start from Newcastle.

Northern:

Wednesday: Buses replace trains between Morpeth and Chathill.

TransPennine Express:

Wednesday: Buses will replace trains between Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Passengers are urged to plan ahead and check their journey by using the National Rail Enquiries Journey Planner.

Jason Parrish, Head of Planning for Network Rail's East Coast Route, said: “It is fantastic to see the next phase of mid-week engineering trials get underway on the East Coast Main Line.

“These trials are being carried out after research showed that there is a higher demand for travel on weekends to and from London King's Cross station. By doing this work on a weekday, it will mean fewer passengers are impacted by these major upgrades.

“I'd like to thank passengers for their patience, and I would urge anyone travelling to plan ahead and check with National Rail Enquiries or their train operator before setting off.”

A spokesperson on behalf of train operators on the East Coast Main Line, said: “These upgrades will lead to smoother, more reliable journeys between Newcastle and Berwick-upon-Tweed and these trials show how we can work collaboratively to improve passenger experience.

“Buses will replace most trains, whilst a small number of services will run on a diversionary route. Our best advice to passengers is to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.”