Go North East has launched its latest upgraded X-lines service with new buses that offer passengers improved facilities
On 12 December, Go North East made a major upgrade to its express X84 and X85 routes which serve Hexham, Corbridge, Wylam, Heddon-on-the-Wall and Newcastle.
The further £1million investment is the latest part of an overall £8.5million upgrade in brand new, northern British-built, low-emission environmentally friendly double-deck buses introduced to the routes as part of the company’s premium interurban X-lines brand, providing a next-level service for its customers on longer distance routes across the North East.
The investment also highlights the company’s commitment to improving air quality and busting congestion by taking cars out of traffic jams.
With a frequency of up to every 30 minutes, the buses run fast and direct getting customers from Hexham to Newcastle in as little as 45 minutes and connect into the wider X-lines network serving Chester-le-Street, Consett, Durham, Houghton-le-Spring, Metrocentre, Middlesbrough, Peterlee, Stanley and Washington.
Travellers can also sit back and relax as these state-of-the-art buses come with all the latest mod-cons, including free WiFi, USB and wireless charging, seat back phone holders, next-stop audio-visual announcements, including live rail connection times, and tables on the upper-deck.
Go North East’s new X84 and X85 buses also feature bike racks and a dedicated space for up to two wheelchair users, a first for the continued improvements to the accessibility of buses in the North East.
Weekly travel between Hexham and Newcastle is available for just £25 on the Go North East app, with other options available to cater for all needs including flexible ticketing.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director at Go North East, said: “We’re so pleased to be further extending and enhancing our X-lines network of express interurban bus services.
“We now have premium express services connecting Newcastle and key locations across the region, providing fast and comfortable journeys along main roads and to intercity railway standards, providing a viable alternative to driving.
“These services provide a high quality and productive environment, allowing you to get to the region’s city centres and attractions affordably, sustainably and in luxury.”
The launch video for the service can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMxypWL26Ys
