(26 Nov 2020, 11:59 am)Storx wrote As much as this would be handy for people, I really can't see this passing the cost benefit ratio. The B&T is easy because the line already exists so it's mostly just some new stations and new signalling. It'll cost a fortune to build a whole new railway line which mostly passes through nowhere really (no large settlement >100k). Stuff like the Metro through the West End or the Tees Valley Metro will get built before fantasy ideas like this (and that's never happening neither).

Consett is becoming more and more of a commuter town. The land was cheap and houses plentyful once the decontamination from the steelworks was cleared. 

The problems lie in and amongst the road network and topography leading to Newcastle, Gateshead and Durham. 
Road improvements or widening schemes aren't likely to happen, particularly as the green agenda is increased.
Unless they can get Consett International Airport off the ground again and offer carbon neutral flights, the rail offer is the next best thing. However unrealistic it may appear.