OREANDA-NEWS. The upgrades to the station will improve passenger experience and offer increased access for wheelchair users, better facilities for cyclists and a new access road to the car park to reduce congestion. The refurbishment will also see the construction of larger platforms to cater for longer trains.

The area around the station will be remodelled to allow the track to be straightened, which means trains approaching and leaving the station will be able to travel at higher speeds.

The improvements form part of a programme of vital upgrades to the Midland Main Line, which is included in Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan. Work is due to begin in summer 2017 and, once completed, will allow for reduced journey times and higher seat numbers.

Rob McIntosh, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “We are delighted to be working with residents to improve Market Harborough station and reduce journey times for passengers.

“We hope the improvements will help to drive economic growth in the East Midlands and we thank residents for their patience whilst these vital upgrades are carried out.”

Lisa Angus, Head of Major Projects for East Midlands Trains, said: “We’re pleased to be taking part in the drop-in session to update people on the exciting plans for Market Harborough station.

“As well as helping to deliver faster journey times, our customers will benefit from a significantly improved station that will include modern facilities whilst retaining the heritage building that people in the local community at Market Harborough are so proud of. We’re looking forward to working with Network Rail to deliver these major improvements.”