Bishop Auckland’s new bus station opened to the public this weekend, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The new facility on Saddler Street began operating on Sunday (May 10) after a multi-million pound project to improve local services.
Durham County Council said it hoped the new bus station would be a major transport hub for the region and would attract more shoppers and tourists to the area.
Tim McGuinness, cabinet member for rural, farming and transport, said: “This has been an ambitious project to ensure the people of Bishop Auckland have a safe, modern, and efficient transport hub to help them access opportunities within County Durham and the wider region.
The new facility is located on the site of the former bus station, which was demolished to make way for the redevelopment in 2023. Work started on the site in February 2024 and was developed using £11.8 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.
Inside, there are eight bus stands, toilet facilities, including accessible toilets, a changing places unit and a parent and child facility; and a retail kiosk. Several interactive information boards have been installed to display timetables and live updates.
It will also be fully accessible, with anti-slip flooring and seating as well as wheelchair spaces at the front of each passenger waiting area.
The site includes more than 120 car parking spaces for visitors, with accessible spaces for wheelchairs and Blue Badge holders and parking for motorcycles, which the council said will help address parking shortages and reduce pressure on residential areas. There will also be electric vehicle charging points and bicycle parking.
Cllr McGuinness added: “It plays a major part in our plans to regenerate Bishop Auckland and affirm its position as a thriving market down and visitor destination.
“With many partnership projects underway to revive the high street and boost Bishop Auckland’s growing culture, heritage and events offer, the new bus station will serve as a positive welcome for visitors travelling into the centre.
“This is a big step for Bishop Auckland, and we’re excited to welcome the first passengers this weekend.”
Although the project experienced some delays – it was initially scheduled to open in December 2025 – local politicians hope its opening can breathe new life into the town centre.
Sam Zair, Mayor of Bishop Auckland, said: “It’s a fantastic bus station and once the public start to use it, they will be overwhelmed that they have this on their doorstep.
“The former bus station was old, dirty and old-fashioned. This is a breath of fresh air for the town – and hopefully, more people will come into the town, and businesses will benefit.
“It’s a fantastic moment for the town.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
