Rail users in Bicester are set to be even better connected with a new direct rail link to Milton Keynes and Bedford taking an important step forward.
The Secretary of State for Transport has approved Network Rail’s Transport and Works Act Order application granting permission for work to begin on the next phase of East West Rail which will double services to Bicester, Oxford Parkway and Oxford, with trains running every 15 minutes, and enable new services to East Anglia.
With phase two now officially being given the green light, Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council can put required highways and planning consents in place to deliver the project, working together to help minimise the disruption of the works on residents.
A key local infrastructure project, phase one of East West Rail was delivered in 2016 and improved connectivity between Bicester, Oxford, and London Marylebone. Phase two will enable new services to Milton Keynes and Bedford by 2024. The new route will also help reduce traffic on the A34 with it becoming more practical to take the train for some journeys rather than use the road.
