Railway delay has residents feeling 'at back of the queue'

THE news that Bedlington's new station on the Northumberland Line has been delayed until 2026 has been met with frustration in the town.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local Democracy Reporter

Local councillor Malcolm Robinson claimed the town was “at the back of the queue” when it came to investment.

The railway line's delay is the latest disappointment for the town, with some residents feeling it is treated as a poor relation to others nearby.

Between 2017 and 2023, the town received £13.01m in capital investment from the county council, compared to £23.23m in Ashington and £39.4m in Blyth.

Residents have long called for improved leisure facilities, but as yet none have been forthcoming. The Local Democracy Reporting Service took to the streets of the town to ask for their thoughts on the latest delay.

Jeanette Stoker felt the lack of activities for young people in the town contributed to antisocial behaviour.

She said: "I've seen people on the train travelling up and down and we can’t get on it. It would be so helpful for elderly people if they wanted to go to Newcastle - it’s frustrating.