Work to kickstart electrifying the busy railway line from Harborough to Kettering is being backed by Harborough MP

Work to kickstart electrifying the busy railway line from Market Harborough to Kettering is being backed by Harborough MP Neil O’Brien.

The MP spoke as work teams have now begun clearing vegetation from beside the tracks that could interfere with the new power cables.

The vital scheme is part of a massive £1.5 billion rail upgrade for the region being led by Network Rail.

The bold blueprint also features a biodiversity action plan to create new habitats for local flora and fauna.

“This is something we’ve been calling for and campaigning on for some time now.

“So it’s great to see the first step under way now.

“Network Rail will be working hard to remove only what is necessary to ensure the cables can be laid safely and keeping the noise to a minimum,” said Neil.

“Once completed, this will lead to quieter trains, less pollution and improved journey times.

“The fact that the project is now under way is great news.

“Hopefully we can soon have the lines electrified to help with people’s journeys as the year goes on and we begin to reopen.”

Cllr Phil King, who leads Harborough District Council, said: “The benefits of electrification are clear and obvious, both from an environmental perspective as well as for customer journeys and experience.

“I’m pleased that the campaign to electrify to Market Harborough was successful and look forward to working with Network Rail and others in ensuring this goes as smoothly as possible.”