Electrification of Midland Main Line continues apace

Network Rail has revealed that work to prepare the Midland Main Line for electrification will be 50% complete by the end of next weekend – bringing a “cleaner, greener railway” a step closer.

By close of play on 29 January, engineers will have installed half of the foundations needed for an electrified railway between Kettering and Wigston as part of the upgrade.

The foundations will support masts that will eventually carry the electric wires needed to power electric and hybrid trains through the area. As of the beginning of next week, Network Rail will have installed around 640 foundations along the route.

At the same time, teams will continue to clear the way for the multimillion-pound electrification scheme by cutting back overhanging lineside vegetation between Kibworth and Market Harborough.

To ensure to ensure the work can be carried out safely, no trains will call at Market Harborough on Sunday 29 January, services to and from London will be diverted via Melton Mowbray and Corby, and EMR Connect services will only run between London and Wellingborough.

Buses will replace trains between Market Harborough and Kettering / Leicester.

Gavin Crook, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail, said: “Installing half of our foundations is a significant milestone which takes us one step closer to delivering a cleaner, greener railway for both passengers and our lineside neighbours.

“We’re packing in as much work as we can over the weekend and there will be some changes to services through Market Harborough. Please plan ahead, check your journey before setting off and allow extra time.”