Announced on Chester-le-track Facebook page.
It is with great sadness that we announce that Chester le Track will cease trading at our Chester le Street and Eaglescliffe stations from close of business on Saturday 31st March. Falling revenue and the increased use of internet sales on portable devices and mobile phones has made the business unprofitable because we only survive from the sale of tickets at the stations and on our phone lines. When we opened in 1999, 90% of customers making journeys originating from Chester le Street bought their tickets at the station. Although passenger numbers have risen greatly, the proportion purchasing at the station has fallen to 20-30%. We regret this will involve the closure of the waiting room and toilets for all passengers as the station will be unstaffed. Trains will continue to call at the stations, but tickets should be purchased from the automatic machines Northern Rail are providing, or on the train. At Eaglescliffe, Grand Central are reviewing how to provide services for the passengers on their London Service. Our team has enjoyed serving you for the last 18 years and we thank you very much for your custom.
Alex Nelson
Stationmaster