Fourth track between Bedford and Kettering could mean faster trains on Midland Main Line

Work to give passengers in the East Midlands and Bedfordshire access to faster journeys with more seats available on board more environmentally-friendly trains has taken another step forward this week.

On Sunday (December 20) the new fourth track between Bedford and Kettering and the new platform at Wellingborough station were brought into use as part of the Midland Main Line Upgrade.

Gary Walsh, route director for Network Rail's East Midlands Route, said: “This is a really exciting time for all passengers using the Midland Main Line as we start to see the benefits of many years hard work by hundreds of people across the rail industry.

“We’re now working with our colleagues at East Midlands Railway to support driver training and the introduction of electric powered trains on the route, as well as carrying out final testing and assurance with the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).

"We’re well on track to deliver significant improvements for passengers next year. We’ll also be able to transport even more freight by rail, keeping lorries off the roads and supporting our economy to ‘build back better’.”