Latest East West Rail consultation sparks concern among residents
A series of public consultations are being held to allow those affected to have their say in areas the project is set to deliver routes
Last updated 10th Dec 2024
A public consultation held in Bedford last night provided residents with an opportunity to voice their thoughts and concerns about the East West Rail project.
The major infrastructure initiative is set to connect Oxford and Cambridge, delivering rail services to towns in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, with the promise of a sustainable rail link.
While some attendees welcomed the project for its potential economic and environmental benefits, others expressed frustration over its impact on their homes, businesses, and communities.
Local concerns raised in the consultation
While the consultation showcased detailed plans and sustainability commitments, it also revealed opposition among some residents.
Keith, who lives in a village near Bedford, criticised the consultation process as insufficient and felt the route selection was predetermined.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, he said: "I support Oxford to Cambridge, but not through the middle of Bedford.
"This route is the most topographically challenging you could imagine. It’s destroying Bedford and cutting through North Bedfordshire villages unnecessarily. Why not choose a flatter, less disruptive route?"
Keith also raised concerns about the long-term disruption the project will bring to Bedford during construction, adding "Bedford will become a glorified building site for years. It’s going to affect hospital access, local businesses, and the recovery of our town."
Karen is one of the Bedford residents who will be directly impacted by the line, with the infrastructure project cutting her garden in half.
She told Greatest Hits Radio she had discovered only two weeks ago that her property line would be permanently affected to facilitate road reconstruction.
She said: "Originally, we were told there would only be a temporary land grab from our garden. Now, we’re losing about half of it permanently.
"This was such a shock, and it’s upsetting to think how much we’re losing—not just the garden, but also the value of our property and the quality of our lives."
While she described the consultation as 'helpful' and recent interactions with project representatives as 'supportive', she remains frustrated with the lack of clear communication.
"Four years ago, we were told to 'take a mature response.' That was hurtful. While the people here today have been kind and helpful, it’s still difficult to accept these changes," she added.
Others however described it as an economic opportunity.
Harry is a software developer based in Bedford, who is set to utilise the new link as a business development opportunity.
He said: "The pay difference between here and Cambridge is very different.
"They have more access to venture capital and start-up capital for new businesses, so this easier access will make it much easier for new business founders in Bedford to get the capital they need to get going and to get access to the expertise from Cambridge University."
The East West Rail project
The East West Rail project promises to establish a modern rail connection between Oxford and Cambridge, through key towns such as Bletchley and Bedford.
Moving away from diesel-powered engines, the trains will utilise a system known as discontinuous electrification, which combines overhead electrical wires and battery power.
David Hughes, Chief Executive of East West Rail, said: "Discontinuous electrification is cleaner, cheaper, and less disruptive.
"It avoids the need for overhead equipment along the entire line, reducing costs and environmental impacts, particularly in challenging areas like bridges and tunnels."
Mr Hughes maintained that the project aligns with national priorities, including achieving net-zero emissions and promoting economic growth in the region.
He said: "This railway will turbocharge economic development in Oxford, Bedford, Milton Keynes, and Cambridge while delivering a 10% net increase in biodiversity.
"It’s a sustainable solution to meet future transportation and economic needs."
He, however, acknowledged the concerns raised by residents, and said: "For some communities, the project isn’t welcome, and I understand that.
"My job is to minimise the negative impacts as much as possible and work with affected individuals to find solutions."
Services between Oxford and Bletchley are set to commence next year, with the Bedford section scheduled for completion by 2030, and the full route from Oxford to Cambridge operational by the mid-2030s.
Consultations will be taking place until January 24 for residents to have their say.