East West Rail announces design updates for Bicester and Cowley Branch Line reopening
The project aims to connect Oxford with Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge with a modern, accessible railway.
Design updates for the East West Rail project in Oxfordshire have been announced, including proposals for an underpass at London Road level crossing in Bicester and designs to support the reopening of the Cowley Branch Line in Oxford.
East West Railway Company (EWR Co) revealed the updates in its newly published "You Said, We Did" report, which highlights changes made in response to feedback from thousands of consultation responses gathered earlier this year.
One of the key updates is a revised design for an underpass at London Road level crossing in Bicester, which would offer a single-lane road for small vehicles alongside a protected pathway for pedestrians and cyclists. Traffic signals would manage vehicle flow through the underpass, which would not accommodate tall vehicles.
The new design features a more direct connection towards Market Square in Bicester and enhanced pick-up and drop-off facilities near Bicester Village station. These changes respond to strong local feedback asking for improved connectivity when the current crossing is closed.
An alternative footbridge proposal has also been revised, with lifts (instead of ramps) included to reduce its visual impact. The footbridge option would not require third-party funding contributions, unlike the underpass proposal, which is subject to securing additional funding.
The reopening of the Cowley Branch Line has been confirmed by the Government, and EWR Co has updated its designs accordingly to support the project. Once reopened, the line is expected to ease congestion at Oxford station, creating capacity for a full East West Rail service.
The Cowley service will unlock local journeys in Oxford and increase access to jobs, education, and housing, while also supporting regional economic growth.