Go North East Enhances Bus Services, Boosting Travel Options

Go North East, the region’s leading bus company, has unveiled a series of significant service enhancements set to commence on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Funded by the North East Combined Authority’s (NECA) Bus Service Improvement Plan, these upgrades promise to improve connectivity, increase frequency, and provide more reliable transport options for travelers across the region.

Travelers in the Derwentside area will benefit from additional fast buses connecting Consett, Stanley, and Newcastle, including the villages of Burnopfield, Dipton, and Whickham. The weekday bus frequency to Newcastle from Annfield Plain, Dipton, and Burnopfield will double, making travel more convenient. New routes, X70 and X73, will reintroduce direct services to the Metrocentre, a major shopping and leisure destination.

These enhancements are particularly advantageous for travelers exploring the smaller towns and unique local attractions. With increased bus services, tourists will find it easier to visit charming villages like Burnopfield and Dipton, known for their picturesque landscapes and local charm. Additionally, Whickham offers unique historical sites and quaint cafes that are now more accessible thanks to improved bus connectivity.

Regular passenger Brad Young has expressed happiness about the increased frequency of buses, as it makes visiting friends in Burnopfield much easier. Previously, there was only one bus an hour from Gateshead, but now frequent services between Gateshead and Burnopfield have been introduced.

Ben Maxfield, Business Director for Go North East, emphasized the significance of these changes for travelers, highlighting that these new services and improvements are crucial for local communities. They ensure reliable and frequent access to travel across the region, which is a key objective in partnership with NECA. This improved connectivity will also benefit tourists looking to explore the region's hidden gems without the hassle of infrequent transportation.

For those visiting Consett, the introduction of the X70 service and the rerouting of the X71 will increase bus frequency from Leadgate to Newcastle, enhancing travel options. The morning peak service improvements on route 47 from Blackhall Mill to Newcastle will better accommodate commuters and tourists alike. Stanley will also see benefits with the new X32 service, which increases the number of fast buses to Newcastle from two to three per hour, providing more travel flexibility for residents and visitors.

Ben Maxfield also pointed out that these changes are designed to have a positive impact on passengers, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing a top-notch bus service that meets the needs of the community. These enhancements are not only about improving services but also about making a real difference in daily lives and supporting local tourism.

For detailed information on the new services and to view the timetables, travelers can visit the Go North East website or contact their customer service team.