EMR boosts London links with new timetable

East Midlands Railway has announced a brand new timetable, which promises faster and more frequent services between Derby and London.

Set to be introduced from 16th May, EMR said the changes will provide more seats, quicker journeys, with earlier and later services supporting leisure, business and tourism journeys.

It said that passengers travelling from Derby will benefit from several specific enhancements to the current service, including quicker peak journey times to London St Pancras International and consistent departure times through the day.

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Day trippers or passengers wanting more flexibility will also be able to take advantage of the new timetable, which will see the first train arrive at London approximately 45 minutes earlier than currently offered and the last train leaving approximately one hour later.

EMR said it has designed the timetable in a way which, in most cases, keeps the fastest off-peak journey times to London under one hour and 40 minutes.

The improvements have made possible following the successful delivery of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line Upgrade by Network Rail, working in partnership with EMR and other neighbouring train operators.

Will Rogers, managing director of East Midlands Railway, said: “This new timetable represents an exciting new chapter for train services in the region and will bring significant benefits to the communities we serve, including Derby.

“The £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade has allowed us to provide more seats, quicker journeys and a simpler, more resilient timetable.

“It has been an incredible team effort to put this timetable in place, especially during a period so heavily affected by Covid and that is why we are so proud to be able to launch this new timetable.

“It will enable better regional and intercity connectivity, helping people get to work and enjoy their leisure time, and provides a timely and welcome boost to our local economies and passengers.”