First test train runs between Oxford and Milton Keynes on new East West Rail link

A test train has successfully completed its first run between Oxford and Milton Keynes on the new East West Rail route.

Earlier today (21/10), a Chiltern Railways unit was the first train to run over the newly rebuilt section of the line between Bicester and Bletchley as part of testing on the route. This work brings the rail line a step closer to reopening to passengers for the first time in nearly 60 years.

Departing from Oxford station at 9.43am, a Chiltern Class 168 train made a full journey along the line, travelling via Bicester, a new Winslow station and Bletchley before arriving at Milton Keynes Central at 10.25am. The journey along the entire route took 42 minutes to complete, with the train reaching the full line speed of 100mph on several sections of line.

The milestone is towards the opening of the East West Rail link between Bletchley and Bicester, which will allow for through services from Milton Keynes and Bedford to Oxford, and is intended to be part of a plan to re-open the full rail line from Oxford to Cambridge closed to trains in the 1960s.

It is anticipated that the Bletchley to Bicester section will open in 2025, although a specific date has yet to be confirmed.

Christian Irwin, Network Rail’s Director of Capital Delivery, said, “Today is a huge milestone for the East West Rail project. I am incredibly proud of the partnership between Network Rail, our East West Rail Alliance supply chain partners, the DfT, EWR Company and Chiltern Railways, in successfully completing the construction and entry into service of the new railway between Bicester and Bletchley.

“The running of our first test train today is a huge achievement and brings us one step closer to restoring train services between Oxford and Milton Keynes for passengers.”

Rianna Stanwell, Programme Director at Chiltern Railways, added, “I am delighted that Chiltern will be running the first series of test trains between Oxford and Milton Keynes.”

“Working with colleagues at Network Rail and the EWR Alliance this important step in the programme will ensure the infrastructure is ready for passenger service in the future.”

David Hughes, CEO of East West Railway Company, also said, “This is a fantastic achievement and an extremely proud moment for everyone here at East West Rail.

“I would like to thank all our colleagues at the East West Rail Alliance who have worked so hard to rebuild this railway and in particular, our local communities for their continued patience and understanding during the construction works.

“We can all now look forward to passenger services beginning next year and delivering the improved connectivity which this region so desperately needs.”