On the weekend of Saturday/Sunday, 22nd/23rd August, train services between Leicester and Peterborough will be replaced by buses.

The disruption is to allow Network Rail to renew 576 metres of drainage at Kirby Bellars in Leicestershire to help prevent flooding, and replace 583 metres of track at Ashwell in Rutland.

Anyone intending to travel on this route over that weekend, they should check details of their journey with National Rail’s Journey Planner or their train operator before travelling.

Network Rail is fighting a continual battle against drainage and flooding problems across the railway network, and later this month 495 metres of drainage will be renewed at Alfreton in Derbyshire, and a line in North Wales will be closed for flood prevention works.

“These improvements at Kirby Bellars and Ashwell are part of our ongoing investment in the railway across the East Midlands. By renewing drainage and track, we’re helping to reduce the impact of flooding, improve reliability and provide smoother journeys for passengers. We’re sorry to passengers whose journeys will be affected, and we encourage passengers travelling over the weekend to check their journey before setting off.”

Eric Larocque, Operations Director, Network Rail

“We’re sorry for the disruption to journeys in the East Midlands while this essential work takes place. On Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August, rail replacement bus services will be in place between Leicester and Peterborough, with journeys scheduled to take longer than usual. We encourage customers to check their journey before travelling and allow extra time to complete their trip. We’d like to thank all those travelling for their patience and understanding while this important work is carried out.”

Mark Anderson, Customer & Commercial Director, CrossCountry