HRU responds to Network Rail consultation on track realignment and station upgrade

Harborough Rail Users have submitted their response to Network Rail's consultation on the track realignment and station upgrade at Market Harborough. Following the well-attended public exhibition on the plans at the town's Market Hall on 27th February, the HRU Committee discussed the proposals and have now written to Network Rail.  In summary, HRU:

• Supports the full realignment of the track as proposed.
• Welcomes the opportunity this gives to remodel the station with full length (240m), full height platforms on a straighter alignment, reducing the gap between platform and train.
• Supports the relocation of the main car park to the east side of the line with a new entrance building on that side.  This requires modification of the access road to give a safe junction with Rockingham Road.
• Calls for the retention of full access to the station from the ‘town’ side of the line for pedestrians, cyclists, disabled people and those arriving by bus or taxi or being dropped off or picked up by car.
• Welcomes the provision of a footbridge with lifts.
• Calls for facilities suitable for this increasingly busy station, including proper provision for disabled people throughout the rebuilt station, provision of platform canopies (something the present station completely lacks!), and provision of appropriate ticketing and retail facilities.
• Calls for the local authorities to play their part in supporting and facilitating the scheme; for example, via the related highway aspects.