Market Harborough station reopened today, 3rd June 2019, after a six-day closure, during which the new track alignment was completed.  Though there were no official ceremonies, there was much local interest, plus pride on the part of Network Rail, their contractors and East Midlands Trains that the project had been completed on time and to a very high standard.  The long-awaited footbridge with lifts is now in use.  Though platform 1, northbound, is complete, some work remains on platform 2 (southbound) to bring its full length into use.  Until then, platform 2 is only five carriages long.  Work will continue on this, and the extension of the car park to give an extra 200 spaces.  Though there are additional features that HRU would wish to see provided, there is no doubt that the new station is a massive improvement on the previous one.  

The long-awaited blockade of the line through Market Harborough started this morning, 28th May.  The line is now closed until Monday 3rd June, when the new platforms are due to open.  Day 1 of the blockade has seen the old track through the station lifted and the old platforms largely demolished, with the sleepers for the new down line (northbound) now laid along the new alignment to where it joins the existing line.  It is a scene of busy activity.  The rail replacement bus service, every 15 minutes to both Kettering and Leicester, has operated smoothly.  The station car park is free of charge for the duration of the blockade, and passengers are also offered free hot drinks and buns from the Engine Room cafe van in the car park. 
A good start to this complex and important project!