Project works at Bicester will reopen Varsity Line connection closed in 1960s * Completion of enabling works on western section will enable construction to begin in September 2019
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling welcomed a milestone moment for East West Rail during a visit to Bicester yesterday (5 October).
Meeting with Network Rail staff on the western section of the route, the minister saw how preparations are being laid for a world-class rail link, creating better journeys for passengers between Oxford, Milton Keynes and Cambridge.
Mr Grayling said: "East West Rail will transform journeys in one of Europe’s most vibrant economic regions, providing passengers and businesses with a transport system that unlocks economic opportunity and drives forward new housing and jobs.
"As a hub for technical and scientific innovation, home to world-class universities and a skilled workforce that drives growth, the success of England’s economic heartland is imperative to the UK’s prosperity and productivity.
"Rapid progress on the project means we will see construction underway on direct, fast and reliable services from next year, delivering significantly better connections for passengers.
Nigel Tipple — Chief Executive of the OxLEP — added: "We welcome the Transport Secretary’s visit to Bicester which emphasises Oxfordshire’s global prospects supporting innovation-led growth, greater productivity and major ‘place potential’ as we move towards an ever-increasing internationally-focussed economy.
"East West Rail has the potential to drive dynamic economic growth. With a GVA of £23 billion per annum, Oxfordshire is one of only three counties that are net contributors to the Exchequer and – by leveraging the two internationally-renowned cities of Oxford and Cambridge — we can ensure that both communities and ‘UK PLC’ can capitalise on the economic strengths of this region.
“One Oxfordshire example – which has the potential to be supported further by East West Rail – is Bicester Village, which now attracts 6.6million visitors each year, contributing to a collective visitor economy worth £2.04billion per annum, around 10% of our current annual GVA. Therefore, creating supportive infrastructure, in a sensitive manner, is key.
“With regard to Highways England’s recent announcement on its preferred corridor for the Oxford to Cambridge Expressway – working with partners and with the Oxfordshire Growth Board – we are continuing to reflect on this news, reviewing what it really means for the county, our businesses and community, exploring the potential opportunities that may arise.”
The project is a vital part of the government’s plans to provide the region with a road and rail network fit for the future, improving links to jobs, education, leisure and health services.
Pictured: Bicester Village, part of a visitor economy that generates over £2billion a year for Oxfordshire
