A new platform to increase the number of train services serving Hartlepool Station has been completed, and has successfully completed its first month in operation.
The second platform at Hartlepool Station had previously closed in 1990, but reopened thanks to a £12 million overhaul supported by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Network Rail, Northern and Hartlepool Borough Council.
Accessibility has also been enhanced, with the installation of a 53-tonne footbridge complete with lifts.
Prior to the station’s renovation, statistics showed that it was already one of the busiest single-platform stations in the UK, with more than 650,000 journeys taken each year.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen visited the platform last Friday (12th July) and said:
“This work – alongside our efforts at Darlington, Middlesbrough and a raft of other stations in our region – will unlock capacity on our rail system meaning faster journey times and more trains here and beyond.”
The new platform has created more capacity on the Tees Valley network and has opened up the opportunity for better links between Darlington and Hartlepool and improved journey times between Teesside, Wearside and Tyneside.
The reopened stop will also allow Northern to increase their services on the Durham Coast (Middlesbrough to Newcastle via Hartlepool) from one train per hour to three trains every two hours.
Councillor Karen Oliver, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, added: “We are delighted to see the completion of the much-needed additional platform at Hartlepool Train Station, paving the way for more services.
“It’s the vision of Hartlepool Borough Council, the Combined Authority and our partners that this enhancement will significantly improve accessibility and convenience for both local people and visitors, promoting greater connectivity between Hartlepool and other towns and cities.
“This in turn will help to foster the future social, economic and cultural growth of our town with its rich culture and heritage.”
Image and video credit: Tees Valley Combined Authority
