Train disruption causing concern

Kevan Jones asked why trains could not stop at Chester-le-Street

A local MP has expressed concern over changes to a train timetable due to engineering work.

Buses will replace about half the services between Chester-le-Street and Newcastle during engineering work between Sheffield and Chesterfield.

North Durham MP Kevan Jones said commuters will see journey times more than tripled when the works starts.

Cross Country Trains, which runs the affected services, said it has done all it can to minimise disruption.

Kevan Jones said: "The trains are still stopping at Chester-le-Street on a weekend, so there seems to be no reason why they can't continue to do so during the week."

He has written to the train company to express his concern.

A spokesperson for Cross Country Trains said: "We have been talking to the station manager who is happy with the plans.

"We will monitor the situation and if it doesn't work will change it."

Extra buses will be provided during the evening rush hour when engineering work starts on 6 September.

It is due to end in December.