(18 Oct 2020, 6:43 pm)busmanT wrote I hope that they don't find anything untoward underground, given that very heavy freight trains currently run on the line.

I'm not sure that those wanting this scheme realise that parallel bus services will be cut come 2023. 

I've seen you mention this before and don't understand why it would be the case. 
Bus services and train services can often be dealing with different markets, going to different destinations. 
Along each of the 4 existing heavy rail routes in to Newcastle, bus operators run services alongside the rail network and between the same key destinations. Carlisle - Newcastle. Berwick - Newcastle. Durham - Newcastle. Middlesbrough - Newcastle.
What would be different between Blyth and Newcastle?