Rival politicians united in worry over changes

A GROUP of politicians from both sides of the Anglo-Scottish border have called on the Government and rail companies to improve services in the area ahead of major timetable changes.

- JAMES ROBINSON

LNER is set to bring in the new system from next month that will see more trains between Edinburgh and London at the expense of some local services in Berwick.

They have been described as the biggest timetable changes on the East Coast Main Line in over a decade.

Rail operators claim it will result in more trains and quicker journeys, but local leaders are concerned over the impact it will have for people in North Northumberland and the Scottish borders.

The letter, addressed to Rail Minister Lord Hendy, calls for “better investment” in rail across the two regions.

It warns that Berwick serves a large population across a wide area and provides a “vital connection” to the likes of London and York.

The letter reads: “We write to you as local MPs and councillors to express our deep concerns over LNER's confirmation of significant cuts to rail services from Berwick-upon-Tweed station, and to advocate for better investment in rail connectivity for the North East of England and the Scottish Borders.

“Although Berwick-upon-Tweed is a relatively small town, the station not only serves the town, but thousands of people in the Scottish Borders, north Northumberland, and beyond. It is a vital connection to London, Edinburgh, York and many other key towns and cities across the United Kingdom.

“Timetable changes will mean an LNER train serving Berwick-upon-Tweed only every two hours throughout the day, and services to London will be significantly slower.