Midland Main Line Upgrades Continue: Plan Ahead for Travel Disruptions
Rail passengers traveling on the Midland Main Line this weekend are advised to plan their journeys and check for updates due to ongoing upgrade works. Network Rail teams have been working on Sunday nights since April to replace existing overhead power cables for trains between Bedford and Luton. This weekend, several significant tasks will take place, affecting the line at multiple locations on both Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19. Passengers can expect fewer trains to and from London, along with rail replacement bus services for certain sections of the trip.
The track will be closed entirely this weekend between Kettering and Wigston for the installation of new overhead power cables, while further south, old power lines will be replaced. Upon completion, the upgrade aims to provide faster, more reliable, quieter, and environmentally friendly train services. However, until the works are finished, travelers heading towards London from Leicestershire stations may encounter disruptions.
Gavin Crook, Network Rail East Midlands Route principal program sponsor, expressed gratitude for passenger patience during the upgrades, emphasizing the long-term benefits of a more efficient and greener Midland Main Line. He advised passengers to plan ahead and check National Rail Enquiries for the latest travel information.
Dave Meredith, customer services director for EMR, which operates trains on the Midland Main Line, advised customers traveling to or from London on May 18-19 to check their journeys in advance through the EMR website. He explained that engineering works would impact EMR services, resulting in longer journey times, rail replacement buses, and amended timetables. EMR expressed appreciation for customer patience during the electrification project, highlighting the future benefits of more reliable and quicker journeys to and from London.
