Train Franchise Gets Short Extension

East Midlands Trains will continue to run services through Market Harborough until at least August.

The firm has been handed a 24-week extension to its current franchise, which was due to end next month.

Stagecoach, the owner of East Midlands Trains, is one of four companies to have applied to run services on the Midland Mainline from when the new franchise begins until 2027.

A Department For Transport spokesperson said: “We have agreed a short-term direct award with the current operator, Stagecoach. This will bridge the gap between the expiry of the current franchise and the beginning of the next, and ensure services continue with the least disruption until the best proposal for passengers and taxpayers is selected.”