Open access operator Grand Central has launched the first-ever direct services between Seaham and London, in a boost to the town’s regional connectivity.
A celebration event took place at Seaham station today (Monday 15 December) to mark the historic occasion, attended by local MP Grahame Morris and other local councillors and businesses, who heralded the new services as “invaluable” for the local community.
Attendees applauded the 10:41am service from Seaham to London into the station, before Grahame Morris MP stepped on board to travel to Parliament, and made a tannoy announcement to celebrate the new services.
Previously, passengers from Seaham would have had to change services to travel to London, with the journey taking up to four hours. Now, the new direct service will enable passengers to reach London in approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
This new service builds on Grand Central’s history of bolstering regional connectivity in the North East, providing direct services from historically underconnected areas like Sunderland, Hartlepool, and Eaglescliffe into London. Its services play an essential role in boosting regional growth, supporting an area outside London with a combined GDP of £113 billion.
Earlier this year, Arriva, which operates Grand Central, placed an order for £300 million-worth of tri-mode new trains for Grand Central routes following the extension of its track access rights. These trains will be manufactured in the North East at Hitachi Rail’s Newton Aycliffe facility, and bolster connectivity by increasing seats by 20%.
Chris Brandon, director at Grand Central, said: “Today is a milestone not just for Grand Central, but for Seaham. For the first time in history, residents here have a direct, reliable connection to London — a connection that reflects the town’s growing ambition and needs.
“This launch reflects our mission to continue investing in the North East: through our £300 million order of new trains, and through seeking increased track access rights, which will allow us to provide more services in the region for years to come. Our focus remains on delivering the essential services that communities need, at no cost to the taxpayer, while supporting regional economic growth.”
Image credit: Grand Central
