All train services resume at Derby following a huge upgrade. Credit: Network Rail.

UK Network Rail has completed £200m modernisation works at Derby station as part of the Midland Main Line Upgrade programme.

The upgrade works were completed in collaboration with between Network Rail, East Midlands Trains and CrossCountry. Works lasted for 79 days and involved more than 600,000 man-hours of work.

Network Route managing director Rob McIntosh said: “This is a once in a generation investment to improve the railway in Derby and the benefits will be felt across the whole of the East Midlands.

“We’re delighted that this work is now complete and we look forward to passengers reaping the benefits.”

Significant improvements have been made in rail signalling and track infrastructure to facilitate train movement along the line.

“This is a key milestone in the government’s rail upgrade programme.”

All signalling controls in lineside boxes were transferred to a new control centre to minimise delays and provide a more reliable service on the East Midland line.

Additionally, the modernisation work on the tracks will enable trains to run at a higher speed.

Rail Minister Jo Johnson said: “This is a key milestone in the government’s rail upgrade programme and is part of the £1.5bn modernisation of the Midland Mainline.

“Passengers have been incredibly patient during the summer while the huge engineering work has taken place and they will now start to take advantage of the improvements which will deliver more reliable, faster services, with more seats.”

Full rail services between Matlock and Newark, and Sheffield and London St Pancras have resumed after completion of the upgrade works.