Eaglescliffe station gets boost with new service

A North East railway station is set to see improved connectivity and accessibility as a new service launches alongside ongoing redevelopment efforts.

Eaglescliffe Railway Station will welcome an hourly TransPennine Express (TPE) service between Manchester Airport and Redcar, marking the first time the route will stop in both directions at the station in what is being heralded as a “major boost” for the region’s transport network.

This development is part of a £15.3 million overhaul to enhance access and facilities at the station, which will “play a key role” in attracting more businesses to Eaglescliffe and helping to stimulate economic growth.

Funded by £8.8 million from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and £7.5 million from Network Rail, the project includes the installation of three lifts connecting the existing and new car park and Eaglescliffe’s island platform with the current footbridge to provide easier access for passengers.

A pedestrian footbridge is under construction to improve access to the west of the station and Durham Lane Industrial Estate. Additional upgrades include a new taxi office, brick waiting shelter, ticket counter and improved cycle routes.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “This new service to Eaglescliffe is another boost to our region’s transport network and builds on the good progress we’re making on improving stations across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool. 

“Eaglescliffe can now add Manchester to its London link but it’s vitally important we sort out access once and for all.

“Getting to the far side of the station has been far too difficult for many people – and we’re making sure using it becomes quicker and easier for everyone.

“We’ve shown with work at Hartlepool, Billingham and Darlington that we’re getting railway stations sorted and I’m looking forward to seeing Eaglescliffe added to that list before the end of next year.”

The revamp also incorporates a new car park funded through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and Levelling Up Fund, secured by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.

Councillor Bob Cook, leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member, added: “Eaglescliffe Station is a key transport link for the Tees Valley because it connects with major stations up and down the country. 

“The improved transport links and accessibility is great for the area as it will play a key role in helping attract more businesses to Eaglescliffe, which is already home to lots of great firms and businesses like Tata Consumer Products, Returnable Packaging Services and Nifco.

“The new car park, which will be located on part of the Durham Lane site purchased by the Council, and new cycleways both complement the wider improvements being made.”

While most TPE services will now terminate at Redcar Central, select trains will continue to Saltburn in the mornings, afternoons and evenings to maintain connectivity for the seaside town.

Chris Jackson, managing director at TPE, added: “We’re so pleased to be able to introduce these new services at Eaglescliffe which will make a real difference to the area. 

“We have seen great achievements across TPE in the past 12 months, in particular, with cancellations reduced by 70 per cent and, thanks to our customers old and new having confidence to travel with us, we have become the second fastest growing train company in the UK. 

“TPE is bringing back and adding new services and additional seats across our network as we change our timetable.” 

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