Arriva Group has announced its intention to submit an open access application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) for a new direct rail service connecting Newcastle and Brighton via London Gatwick. This service aims to enhance connectivity for underserved communities along the route.
The application, which will be formally submitted to Network Rail, proposes utilising existing underused network capacity. Arriva plans to introduce five daily trains in each direction, establishing the first direct route between Newcastle and Brighton.
Operated by Grand Central, Arriva’s established open-access rail operator, the service could commence in December 2026. It promises a direct link from the Northeast and Midlands to London Gatwick and the South Coast, eliminating the need for passengers to interchange through London. This would offer a more efficient, affordable, and sustainable travel option.
This initiative is part of Arriva Group’s broader commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and optimising rail capacity. By opening new travel corridors, Arriva aims to connect more people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities, while encouraging a shift from private cars to public transport.
Paul Hutchings, Managing Director of Arriva UK Trains’ Rail Services, said: “We’re committed to connecting communities and enabling more people to travel in ways that are convenient and sustainable, so we’re very pleased to be submitting this application for the first direct service between Newcastle and Brighton, opening up new travel opportunities and making better use of available network capacity – all while building on Grand Central’s proud history of connecting traditionally underserved communities.
“This is an exciting time for Grand Central’s growth story and follows the extension of our existing access rights to 2038 as well as the recent announcement of an investment of around £300 million in a new battery hybrid train fleet for our existing routes, further underlining our commitment and ambition for rail in the UK.”
If approved, the new route will offer direct access to London Gatwick for numerous communities in the northeast and Midlands, including Northallerton, Warwick, and Burton-on-Trent. This service will provide passengers with a reliable, comfortable, and lower-carbon alternative to road travel, while alleviating capacity constraints on London's transport network. Each train will accommodate 300 passengers, featuring luggage space for airport travellers, on-board catering, Wi-Fi, and charging points.
Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer of London Gatwick said,
"We welcome Arriva’s exploration of a regular service between London Gatwick, the Midlands and North East,….”
and are excited about the opportunities this proposed service could bring. London Gatwick is keen to encourage passengers to use public transport and this enhanced connectivity would support underserved areas, while strengthening and growing our catchment.
“London Gatwick already boasts an extensive network supported by strong relationships with transport providers, making the airport the best connected in the UK by public transport - this proposed addition would further enhance the seamless travel options for passengers and staff.”
Other applications currently awaiting approval from the ORR include proposals for two extra daily return services between Bradford and London and an early morning and late evening return from York to London, as well as the introduction of a direct London connection to Grimsby and Cleethorpes.
Image credit: Arriva
