‘People can see it – but can’t use it’: mystery of completed East-West Rail line that has no passenger trains
Summary
The new East West Rail line between Oxford and Milton Keynes is finished and running freight trains but has not yet started passenger services, despite plans to do so. Delays are caused by contract issues, train modifications, staff training, and negotiations over staffing, with no clear date announced for passenger trains to begin.Key Facts
- The East West Rail line connects Oxford to Milton Keynes and Cambridge.
- Freight trains have been running since late 2024, but no passenger trains are in service.
- Passenger service was expected to start in early 2025 but has been delayed multiple times.
- The Department for Transport says the delay is partly due to contract interruptions caused by the 2024 general election.
- Chiltern Railways, the operator, needs to complete train modifications, station handover, and staff training.
- Unions oppose driver-only trains, causing staffing negotiations to continue.
- Local people and officials are frustrated because passenger trains were promised to support new homes and job access.
- Protests and petitions have been organized by residents affected by the delay.
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