Subject to funding for the delivery of the full scheme being confirmed by the Government, and the recently submitted Transport and Works Act Order  application being approved, work is scheduled to start in early 2022.

As well as new stations, the full project will upgrade 18 miles of track, three new footbridges and new signal locations between Ashington and central Newcastle.

In January, the Treasury signed-off £34m towards the final £166m cost, with further funding to follow once design works are concluded.  

This is being used fund land acquisition, complete detailed design and for Network Rail to commence early works prior to relevant planning approvals.

The whole scheme is projected to deliver economic benefits of up to £470m.