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Trains from Oxford to Milton Keynes Central, starting next year, will take just 44 minutes – a journey that can take up to 2hr by car. Although passenger services will not start until late 2025, the slots have been set out in the new timetable. Services will run every half hour, with a typical journey being Oxford 1339, Parkway 1346, Bicester Village 1355, Winslow 1406, Bletchley 1417, MK 1423.

Chiltern will operate the service using modern two-car trains

https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/search/detailed/gb-nr:OXF/to/gb-nr:BLU/2024-12-18/0000-2359?stp=WVS&show=all&order=wtt

Chiltern Railways selected as operator for the first stage of East West Rail - Oxford to Milton Keynes

Serving six stations, the new route will transform economic and social connections in the area by linking Oxford and Milton Keynes with reliable and efficient rail services for the first time in nearly 60 years. The services will also support vibrant new and expanded communities, including new commercial and residential developments along the full East West Rail route.

Trains will stop at Oxford, Oxford Parkway, Bicester Village, Winslow, Bletchley and Milton Keynes Central - providing easier and faster connectivity for passengers and local businesses.

To help deliver the new service, Chiltern has already expanded its excellent team, and we will welcome 94 permanent employees - including new drivers, station colleagues, and other key roles along the route.

Chiltern will also manage a new station in Winslow with two platforms and full step-free access. This new station will connect Winslow and surrounding communities to expanded employment opportunities, easier access to public services, and reduced reliance on road travel.

In being selected as the operator on the line Chiltern has agreed to meet a comprehensive framework of operating conditions and requirements set by the Department for Transport. Initial services will use Class 196 trains which will be branded in Chiltern colours.

Chiltern’s Managing Director Richard Allan said:

"The first stage of East West Rail will provide fast, direct train services between Oxford and Milton Keynes and we are delighted that Chiltern has been announced as operator. 

Chiltern has a proud track record of delivering new services and infrastructure, including our London to Oxford connections and introduction of new stations at Oxford Parkway and Bicester Village. 

We are looking forward to carrying customers on this exciting new route which is set to make a critical contribution to the UK’s economic growth."

Development of the second and third stages of East West Rail are expected to start from 2030, with the Government having confirmed funding in January.

The Oxford Clarion now has 'By 25th September 2025'. I'm wondering when the first opportunity will be for a one change-of-train journey from Bristol to Bletchley, the last Saturday Bristol to Oxford services... do those cease after 17/05/25?

Mark

The Oxford Clarion now has 'By 25th September 2025'. I'm wondering when the first opportunity will be for a one change-of-train journey from Bristol to Bletchley, the last Saturday Bristol to Oxford services... do those cease after 17/05/25?