It joined the network on 31 March 2002, following the opening of the extension from Pelaw to South Hylton.

The old station opened in June 1853, before being closed, and re-sited to the north west of Hylton Road in around 1890.

[5] Between Millfield and Pallion, it was necessary for the Tyne and Wear Metro route to deviate from the original alignment, owing to the construction of a road.

A new trackbed was cut in to a steep slope, and extensively retained with piling, along with the construction of a new road bridge.

The station is equipped with ticket machines, waiting shelter, seating, next train information displays, timetable posters, and an emergency help point on both platforms.