A £3.1 million project lead by Network Rail to protect the railway line between Wylam and Clara Vale is now complete.

The popular Keelman’s Way Footpath, which had closed when the project began in August 2022, will reopen tomorrow (31st March 2023).

The River Tyne had eroded the footpath next to the line, so the project was needed to ensure that the line could remain safe.

Network Rail has installed rock armour and reinstated the slope next to the river.

The defense measures will make sure that the railway remains reliable for many years.

Jonathan Ham, Lead Portfolio Manager for Network Rail, said: “We had to close Keelman’s Way while we did some important work between Wylam and Clara Vale.

“Now that’s done we can keep the trains running safely and reliably through that section of track for future years.

“It also means that Keelman’s Way footpath, which we know is well used by the community, can reopen.”