Rail bosses launching consultation for East West Rail links

The eight-week consultation by East West Railway Company will run from Tuesday to June 9, 2026, offering communities along the route a vital opportunity to have their say on the latest plans.

Their contributions will help shape the final design of the railway, before a Development Consent Order applicatiion for government backing is submitted in 2027.

The consultation launch follows a petition urging the Government to intervene in delays to the opening to passengers of the East West Rail line between Oxford and Milton Keynes.

READ MORE: Petition to force progress on East West Rail line

A dispute between train guards and drivers and East West Rail line operator Chiltern Railways has caused delays.

Only freight trains are running on the route which connects Oxford, Oxford Parkway, and Bicester to Milton Keynes.

Dave Richardson, of Railfuture (Image: Contributed)

Dave Richardson, a spokesman for campaign group Railfuture, said: “The Oxford-Bletchley-Milton Keynes section is complete but no passenger trains are running, while the Bletchley-Bedford section is operational but needs a major upgrade.

“The Bedford-Cambridge section is a long-term aim as parts of it will need to be built from scratch while some of it will use existing routes. It’s due to open in the 2030s.”

A series of public drop-in events will now be held across the route to provide opportunities to talk with experts from EWR Co to find out more about the updated proposals, ask questions and submit feedback.

David Hughes, CEO for East West Rail Company, said: “This consultation marks a major milestone for East West Rail as we move closer to delivering a once-in-a-generation project that will transform connectivity across the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor.

“East West Rail is about far more than a new railway – it’s about unlocking opportunities for people and places, supporting new homes and jobs, and making it easier, faster and greener to travel between some of the UK’s most dynamic destinations.

“We’ve listened carefully to feedback to shape these latest designs, which include plans to deliver benefits earlier through phased construction, improve accessibility, and support our net zero ambitions through innovative, lower-carbon technology.

“I’d strongly encourage everyone along the route to take part in our last consultation.

“Your views are vital in helping us refine our plans and ensure East West Rail delivers lasting benefits for communities, businesses and the wider region for generations to come.”

One of the consultation events will be at the Kings Centre in Osney Mead, Oxford, on Tuesday, May 12, from 11am to 6pm.