Well LGW would be better for me but I only use the service if there's a problem (e.g. engineering works) on the GNER route, when Eastern pulled the LCY-NCL route it's generally slower by plane end to end now, not to mention more hassle.

From a BA perspective pulling the LHR-NCL route would make no sense, but would indeed benefit both Emirates and KLM. Most people I know (in Newcastle) prefer to transit through AMS than LHR, but terminal 5 may change that assuming the LHR flights aren't scrapped completely. I know most people would prefer to fly BA if they had a decent hub (although I'd probably stick with KLM, my flying pattern gets me gold on flying blue but on Exec Club would have me at 0 tier points due to the rules on discounted tickets).

For people who aren't in transit I think LGW is under-rated, with its excellent rail connections it's convenient for a lot of areas that would be a hassle from LHR. Living in Southwark I'd say it's the second most convenient airport for me after LCY thanks to the connections from London Bridge.