It joined the network on 31 March 2002, following the opening of the Wearside extension – a project costing in the region of £100 million.

The old station opened in June 1853, as part of the Penshaw branch of the York, Newcastle and Berwick Railway.

Between Pallion and Millfield, 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.