The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has authorised the new Newsham railway station ahead of its expected public opening on 17 March. The new station will provide improved connectivity as part of the Northumberland Line project.
Newsham Station is part of the wider Northumberland Line programme, which aims to enhance rail services across the region.
ORR’s authorisation of the station covers the construction of two platforms, a footbridge with stairs and lifts, waiting shelters, customer information screens, lighting, and other upgrades.
ORR’s authorisation is a key milestone in getting new, upgraded, or renewed infrastructure, such as Newsham Station, ready to open. It confirms that standards on areas like health and safety, accessibility, environmental protection, and reliability and availability have been met.
ORR has worked with Northumberland County Council and Network Rail from the outset of the project to support them through the authorisation process, ensuring that important checks and surveys were carried out.
Steve Fletcher, deputy director, engineering and asset management at ORR, said:
This is an important step for improving rail connectivity in Northumberland, and we look forward to seeing the station open to passengers soon.
We’re pleased to have played our part in getting Newsham Station ready to open. Our team worked closely with Northumberland County Council and Network Rail to support them through the authorisation process, just as we do for new trains and infrastructure across the country.
Image credit: Northumberland County Council
