East West Rail Launches Final Route-Wide Consultation Ahead of DCO Submission

East West Railway Company (EWR Co) has opened its final route-wide consultation on updated plans for the East West Rail project, which will connect Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge.

Running for eight weeks from 14 April to 9 June 2026, the consultation provides communities along the corridor with a key opportunity to review the latest proposals and influence the scheme’s final design ahead of a planned Development Consent Order (DCO) submission in 2027.

The consultation sets out a range of updated information and design developments, including:

• New visualisations of stations and fly-through animations of sections of the route

• Further detail on a phased construction approach aimed at delivering benefits earlier

• Proposals for new stations and upgrades to existing infrastructure

• Indicative service patterns and train lengths, including provision for future demand linked to the Universal theme park

• Plans relating to level crossings

• Use of discontinuous electrification alongside hybrid battery-electric trains to support decarbonisation

• Measures to minimise environmental impact and deliver biodiversity net gain

To support engagement, EWR Co is hosting a series of in-person drop-in events across the route, alongside weekend and online sessions to maximise accessibility. A Virtual Consultation Room will also be available, allowing stakeholders to review materials and engage digitally.

All consultation documents will be accessible online, with multiple channels provided for submitting feedback, ensuring those unable to attend events can still participate.

Although this represents the final consultation covering the full route, EWR Co confirmed that engagement with stakeholders will continue as the design is refined ahead of the DCO submission.

David Hughes, CEO of EWR Co, said: “This consultation represents an important step forward as we progress a project that will significantly improve connectivity across the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor.

“East West Rail is about more than infrastructure—it’s about enabling economic growth, supporting housing and jobs, and providing faster, more sustainable travel options.

“We have incorporated feedback from earlier consultations into these updated designs, including plans for phased delivery, improved accessibility and lower-carbon solutions.

“I would encourage everyone along the route to take part in this consultation, as community input remains essential in shaping a scheme that delivers long-term benefits for the region.”