A better-connected North East is taking shape.

When I was elected Mayor, I promised to deliver the Angel Network – one joined up transport network that puts local people first.

Last year, over 16,000 people shared their views through our Local Transport Plan consultation. The message was clear: people want a transport system they can rely on.

We’ve already taken bold steps – including introducing The Mayor’s Fares to cap ticket prices and help people save money on everyday journeys. We’re in the process of bringing buses back into public control – a major milestone that will give passengers more say over fares, routes and timetables. It’s a complex and lengthy journey, but one we’re fully committed to. As I’ve said before, we’re determined to fix our broken transport system and build something better – a network shaped around people, not profit.

The Angel Network is my long-term vision: a seamless, joined-up system where buses, Metro, rail and the Shields Ferry all work together, with easy ticketing, clear information and a standard passengers can trust.

We’re making real progress on our route to the Angel Network, and trust me, we’re just getting started.

North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness

Why “Angel Network”?

Named after the iconic Angel of the North, the Angel Network is Mayor Kim’s vision for a connected, inclusive and innovative system – designed around how people really travel day to day.

Building the Network

Travel North East website:

We’ve launched the Travel North East website: your one-stop shop to plan journeys, check fares, get real-time updates, and travel with confidence.

What else?

• Bringing buses back into public control – giving communities more say over routes, fares and reliability.
• Investing in Metro and rail upgrades and extensions – improving frequency, accessibility and where the network takes people.
• Expanding walking, wheeling, and cycling routes – making active travel safer and easier.
• Making tickets simpler – so people can move easily across the region.

Together, this is how we will build the Angel Network – Mayor Kim’s long-term vision for a greener, joined-up transport system for the North East.

What’s next?

Over the coming months, you’ll continue to see the difference: fleets of new electric buses with better accessibility, affordable fares through the Mayor’s Fares price‑capping, modern bus shelters that make waiting more comfortable, and bus priority measures that keep services moving reliably.

These are the first visible steps towards a transport system that is simpler, greener and truly joined up – and they mark the beginning of a transformation that will reach every corner of the region.

The Angel Network won’t happen overnight, but progress is already underway.