Site visit at Harborough station

A site visit at the station took place on 1st December between three members of the HRU Committee, Harborough MP Neil O’Brien and representatives of the DfT, Network Rail and East Midlands Trains. This arose from a meeting on 14th November between Neil O’Brien and Rail Minister Paul Maynard MP at the Houses of Parliament on 14th November; with the DfT also present along with HRU Chair Steve Jones.
The site visit was convened at the DfT's suggestion to explore two particular concerns we have about the station upgrade and track realignment: the lack of proper access for the disabled from the booking office to the platforms and the lack of toilets on the new southbound platform.  We looked around the station site and considered the implications including the best location for a lift, the requirements for mains electrical, water and drainage services and the other improvements that are included in the plans for the station.  The various parties listened to what we said and, while not disagreeing, it was clear that limited finance is the main constraint here.  There are many competing demands for limited funds!  We are grateful that the various parties took time out to visit Market Harborough and discuss the issues openly with us.  However, we will continue to press for these enhancements to what is otherwise a significant improvement to the station.