Passengers are benefiting from better access at a Midlands Mainline railway station after a new, longer platform opened.
Network Rail has completed work on platform 2 at Market Harborough station so that longer trains with more seats can call there.
The work is part of a £1.5 billion Midland Main Line Upgrade programme which has already seen the station’s car park expanded from 300 to 500 spaces.
The tracks through the station have also been straightened to allow trains to travel at a higher speed, and a new “accessible” footbridge has been built.
However, plans to electrify the line north of Market Harborough, are still on hold.
Platform two at the station is now 265m - or 869 ft long - to allow 250m long trains to call there.
The step between the trains and platform has also been reduced, making it easier for people to get on and off.
The average journey time from Harborough to London is 1 hour 11 mins and there are 35 direct trains a day.
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The Midland Main Line Upgrade, which is the biggest investment into the line since its construction in the Victorian era, will also take in further improvements to toilets and the waiting room on platform one.
There will also be a secure cycle hub.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “A new platform at Market Harborough station will allow for longer trains with more seats, reducing overcrowding and improving travel for passengers.
“This key enhancement is part of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade, a historic investment in the line which will transform journeys across the region.”
Kevin Harris, who chairs the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, said: “One of Leicestershire’s key strengths is our position at the heart of the country, making us the ideal location for the movement of goods and people.
“This upgrade to Market Harborough station represents a real improvement both for the people of Leicestershire, and for the 海角视频’s transport network as a whole, as journey times on the Midland Main Line are reduced.
“I’m very proud that the LLEP invested £3 million of its Local Growth Fund in the project.
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“This forward-thinking investment will play a huge role in connecting our region and growing our economy for the future.”
Gavin Crook, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail, said: “We are delighted to have opened the newly extended platform two at Market Harborough station which will make travelling easier and more comfortable for all those who use it.
“We have carried out a vast amount of work to improve the railway in this area, as well as preserving the heritage of the station building, and we look forward to the final improvements to the customer toilets, platform one waiting room and cycle hub facilities completing.”
Neil Grabham, customer service director for East Midlands Railway, said: “We are really pleased that platform two at Market Harborough station is open from today and we are grateful for the patience and understanding of our customers.
“The extended platform will make it easier for passengers to get on and off the train.
“Later this year, Market Harborough passengers will also benefit from several other improvements at the station, including the waiting room on platform one and a cycle hub.”