Public Inquiry begins into East West Rail second phase

The Public Inquiry into the East West Rail (EWR) project commenced on February 6, to examine proposals for the direct rail link between Oxford and Bedford and Milton Keynes and Aylesbury.

The first phase of the project between Oxford and Bicester is complete, but the second phase involves track and signalling upgrades between Bicester, Bedford, Aylesbury and Milton Keynes - including reinstatement of the mothballed section between Bletchley and Claydon Junction. This part is the subject of the Public Inquiry. The Central Section between Cambridge and Oxford is being developed.

The Public Inquiry is being held at the Milton Keynes Community Foundation, and is expected to sit for 40 days over 12 weeks, with the exceptions of weeks commencing March 4/25, April 15 and on Tuesdays April 23 and May 7.

Colin Murphy, Network Rail Head of Consenting and Environment on the EWR project, said: “The start of the Public Inquiry signifies a key milestone and phase of the consenting process. Our aim now is to ensure the planning inspector is presented with the information needed to examine and assess the merits of our proposals, against the views of others, on whether to recommend to the Secretary of State for Transport that the order should be made. When approved, Network Rail can initiate delivery of the main construction works.”

EWR Consortium Chairman Mark Shaw added: “After more than 20 years of campaigning, the start of the Public Inquiry is a key moment in the project’s history. The consortium will be appearing at the inquiry in support of East West Rail, which will provide new sustainable travel options and play a key role in helping realise the full potential of our economy.

“We are confident that the case for the investment is solid, but it is absolutely right that the inquiry examines the proposal in detail so that stakeholders and residents’ concerns are taken into account by the inspector, before a final decision is made.”

See Industry Insider, page 92