£100m rail project linking Milton Keynes and Oxford delayed beyond Christmas

East West Rail launch delayed

Rail operators have confirmed that the long-awaited East West Rail line connecting Milton Keynes and Oxford, originally expected to open before Christmas, will not meet its planned launch date. The £100 million project had aimed to offer a direct route between the two cities, cutting travel time to about 42 minutes.

Project background

The project is part of a major infrastructure plan designed to improve east–west connectivity across central England. It has been promoted as a crucial addition to the regional transport network, reducing road traffic and offering faster rail options for commuters and students travelling between Oxford, Bicester, and Milton Keynes.

Current status

According to the operators, further testing and safety checks are required before passenger services can begin. No new launch date has yet been confirmed, but officials insist that the delay is necessary to ensure reliability and safety from day one.

Local response

Commuters and local officials have expressed frustration over the delay, noting that the line was expected to ease congestion and support economic growth across the Oxford–Cambridge corridor. Still, project representatives remain optimistic, stressing that once completed, the route will deliver significant long-term benefits for the region.

“We understand the disappointment, but it’s essential that the service meets the highest standards before opening,” a spokesperson said.

Author’s summary

A £100 million East West Rail link between Milton Keynes and Oxford, promising 42‑minute journeys, has been delayed past Christmas due to ongoing safety and testing issues.

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Milton Keynes Citizen on MSN Milton Keynes Citizen on MSN — 2025-11-27

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