Timetable changes to LNER services at Durham ‘frustrating’
Eddie Dempsey, who became general secretary of the RMT union last year, raised the issue during a visit to the city for an event with the Durham Miners’ Association.
He said alterations introduced in December 2025 have hit several communities across the region.
Mr Dempsey told The Northern Echo: “The timetable changes introduced in December have created a mixed picture across the region.
“While some areas such as Newcastle have seen improvements in connectivity, many communities, including Durham, Morpeth and Berwick-upon-Tweed, are now facing reduced LNER services.
“Any cuts to direct routes inevitably frustrate passengers and place additional pressure on our members, who often end up travelling longer or incurring extra costs just to get to work.”
He said rail services should be planned around the needs of communities, and called for better support for both staff and passengers.
The remarks follow what has been described as one of the most significant UK timetable changes in years.
The changes came after a Β£4 billion investment in the East Coast Main Line, which led to more trains and shorter journeys for many passengers across the country.
However, under the new timetable, LNER services northbound from Durham now call only at Newcastle.
Despite this, LNER said the changes had increased capacity across the network.
Welcome to your new timetable! We are adding 10,000 more services per year, giving you more choice, more flexibility, and better access to best prices.
Check your new journey at or message us directly for more information. #MoreSeatsMoreTrains pic.twitter.com/9f6MUoyFAU
β London North Eastern Railway (@LNER) December 14, 2025
A spokesman for LNER said: “Across the East Coast Main Line, the December 2025 timetable change continues to deliver 60,000 extra seats and 10,000 additional services per year for customers, making train travel faster and more comfortable.
“In Durham, the station retains an hourly LNER service in each direction, alongside trains from other operators, keeping the community well connected to key hub destinations such as London Kingβs Cross, York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh Waverley.
“At LNER, we are proud to be part of the communities we serve. The station continues to plays a key role in welcoming tourists, connecting students, and serving commuters.”