Grand Central submits new application for direct services between Newcastle and Brighton via London Gatwick

Grand Central could soon be operating a new direct rail service between Newcastle and Brighton, via London Gatwick, following the submission of an open access application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).

The proposed route would be the first direct rail connection between the North East and the South Coast - bypassing central London and offering passengers a more efficient and sustainable travel option. The service would operate five trains per day in each direction and make use of under-utilised capacity on the existing rail network.

Paul Hutchings, Managing Director of Arriva UK Trains’ Rail Services, said: 

“We’re committed to connecting communities and enabling more people to travel in ways that are convenient and sustainable, so we’re very pleased to be submitting this application for the first direct service between Newcastle and Brighton, opening up new travel opportunities and making better use of available network capacity – all while building on Grand Central’s proud history of connecting traditionally underserved communities.

 

“This is an exciting time for Grand Central’s growth story and follows the extension of our existing access rights to 2038 as well as the recent announcement of an investment of around £300 million in a new battery hybrid train fleet for our existing routes, further underlining our commitment and ambition for rail in the UK.”

If approved, the new route would launch in December 2026 - extending Grand Central’s reach and continuing its mission to connect underserved communities across the UK. The new route would provide direct access to London Gatwick for many communities in cities and towns in the North East and the Midlands, such as Northallerton, Warwick and Burton-on-Trent – offering passengers a reliable, comfortable and lower-carbon alternative to road travel while easing capacity constraints on London’s transport network. Each train would offer capacity for 300 passengers - including luggage space for airport travellers, as well as on-board catering, Wi-Fi and charging points.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer of London Gatwick, said:

“We welcome Arriva’s exploration of a regular service between London Gatwick, the Midlands and North East, and are excited about the opportunities this proposed service could bring. London Gatwick is keen to encourage passengers to use public transport and this enhanced connectivity would support underserved areas, while strengthening and growing our catchment.

 

“London Gatwick already boasts an extensive network supported by strong relationships with transport providers, making the airport the best connected in the UK by public transport - this proposed addition would further enhance the seamless travel options for passengers and staff.”

Proposed Route Stops

The service would call at: Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, Northallerton, York, Doncaster, Sheffield, Derby, Burton-on-Trent, Birmingham New Street, Warwick Parkway, Banbury, Oxford, Reading, Wokingham, Guildford, Redhill, London Gatwick, Haywards Heath, Brighton.