Reduced EMR timetable announced amid train reliability problems
Written by HFM News on 18th July 2026
East Midlands Railway has announced a reduced Intercity timetable after ongoing reliability problems with its trains.
The changes will come into effect from Monday until further notice, with five northbound and four southbound services from Market Harborough cancelled each day.
The revised timetable will affect services on the Midland Main Line and will remain in place while EMR works with manufacturer Hitachi Rail to resolve the issues.
EMR says the decision follows reliability problems with the new Class 810 Aurora fleet, as well as maintenance issues affecting its existing Class 222 trains.
A Class 810 Aurora train at Market Harborough railway station
The Class 810 trains were introduced to replace the Class 222 fleet, but EMR says delays to their introduction and ongoing reliability issues across both fleets have affected its ability to provide a consistent service.
Managing director Will Rogers said: “The performance of the Class 810 fleet has fallen below the levels we and our customers expect, and it is necessary to introduce a temporary reduced timetable while we work with the manufacturer, Hitachi Rail, to improve consistency in service.”
He apologised for the disruption, adding the company was committed to restoring the reliable service passengers expect.
Harborough MP Neil O’Brien, who has been pressing for action over the issue, said: “I have also been contacted by more concerned people who work on the railway – and it is apparent that these major problems are not going to be solved any time soon. I am continuing to press ministers to get a grip on this crisis – which has been growing ever since they allowed our existing trains to be sent away at the end of last year, despite knowing our new ones had not arrived.
“I am calling on them to cancel plans for more of our trains to be sent away in September, and demanding a timetable for the resolution of this crisis.”
Passengers affected by cancellations will be able to travel on up to two earlier or two later EMR services, while those who decide not to travel can request a full refund.
More details on the revised timetable HERE.
Hitachi Rail has been approached for comment.
