A new consultation has today been launched on major plans for a railway project connecting Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge.
Passenger services are due to start along the first stage of East West Rail (EWR) between Oxford and Bletchley in 2025, with track all laid and line testing underway on this section.
The updated proposals contain revised infrastructure and design plans for a new stretch of railway between Bedford and Cambridge, plus works to upgrade the existing railway between Oxford and Bedford.
The consultation comes after the Government committed to delivering EWR in full in last month’s Budget.
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David Hughes, CEO of EWR Co, said: “East West Rail will improve people’s everyday lives by creating more job opportunities, easier and quicker ways to get to work and enjoy days out, and more affordable places to live, while crucially boosting economic growth in the Oxford area and across the entire country.
“This is why I’m excited to present our updated proposals, which include electrification to reflect our commitment to running a net zero carbon railway, our latest work to increase rail capacity in Oxford and updated options for London Road level crossing in Bicester.
“Local authorities and businesses have been calling for this railway for three decades and our revised plans aim to maximise the benefits of the project.
“Our revised designs have been influenced by the huge number of conversations we’ve had with local people and businesses, and thousands of responses we have had to our last public consultation.
"I encourage people to read our updated proposals in this consultation, attend one of the public events across the route and share your views to help us refine our designs further to help ensure East West Rail best serves its local communities.”
Oxfordshire County Council leader Liz Leffman, chair of England’s Economic Heartland, said: “East West Rail will transform the way people can sustainably access jobs, skills, leisure and housing across the region.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh added: “With these proposals, passengers can get ready for more frequent, faster and greener journeys through an electrified line, demonstrating our drive to deliver infrastructure that is truly fit for the future.
“This consultation marks a significant moment for the project, offering the public an exciting opportunity to shape the development of this transformational line. I encourage local residents and businesses to get involved and have their say.”
Residents can have their say at Oxford Town Hall, St Aldate's, on Tuesday, November 19 from 2pm until 7pm.
There is also an online webinar on Wednesday, November 20 from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. The link to join it is tinyurl.com/2y34z2n3.
The consultation will run for 10 weeks from November 14 to January 24 next year.
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About the author
Toby is a senior reporter who has a particular interest in covering planning and local government.
He joined in September 2024 having been a reporter at the Hampshire Chronicle for three years.
Toby studied at the University of Brighton and can be found on X through the handle @JournoToby
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