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The plans, which the government says are central to its economic growth mission, involve upgrading the line between Oxford and Bicester, bringing back a section of line between Bicester and Bletchley, and building a brand new railway between Bedford and Cambridge. EWR will, according to the Department for Transport, support up to 100,000 homes and boost the regional economy by £6.7bn a year by 2050.
The consultation opened on 14 April and runs until 9 June, giving the public a chance to submit their views on the proposals. It is intended to be the final consultation before a Development Consent Order is submitted that would grant permission to build the line. “These proposals underline the benefits EWR will bring to communities along the route,” said transport secretary Heidi Alexander in a written statement to parliament. “The launch of this consultation reinforces the government’s commitment to its growth mission, realising the full potential of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor by supporting jobs, housing and economic activity.”
Some changes have been made in response to previous consultations, including new stations at the proposed new town of Tempsford, Cambourne, Cambridge East and on the Marston Vale line, and a new approach to sequencing the project that will bring economic benefits at the earliest opportunity. Under current plans, there will be up to five trains an hour running between Oxford and Cambridge by the mid-2030s.
David Hughes, CEO for EWR, said: “These updated proposals mark a major step forward for East West Rail to help ensure communities see the benefits of the project sooner as we finalise the design. Faster delivery, more frequent services and new stations will help unlock housing, support new jobs and attract investment, while giving residents and businesses better connections between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge.
“By bringing forward key elements of the railway and planning for increased demand, we are helping to ensure the infrastructure is in place to support future growth and opportunities for our communities. I encourage residents, businesses and stakeholders to take part in the consultation and share their views on our latest plans.”
Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “East West Rail will unlock the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, providing greater connectivity across the region and delivering on our Plan for Change mission to drive economic growth, jobs and homes. This consultation reflects continuing progress on the final design for this critical railway and another step forward to delivering the benefits of this project to a multitude of individuals, local communities and businesses.”
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