Council welcoming upgraded rail service between Swindon and Oxford
They say the new link would boost jobs, tourism and greener travel, and are now working on making the service permanent, following a successful trial.
Council Leaders in Swindon and Oxfordshire have welcomed the positive response from Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, confirming the Government’s support for progressing a two‑hourly direct rail service between Swindon and Oxford.
The regular rail link would build on a successful Saturday trial, which saw Great Western Railway operate direct Saturday services between Bristol Temple Meads and Oxford that call at Swindon.
Cllr Small said that direct services would boost commuting, tourism and supply‑chain connections, while providing quicker, greener travel and reducing congestion on the A420.
The successful trial showed the service was well used by passengers and confirmed there is sufficient track capacity without requiring new infrastructure, which was a key factor in making the case to the Government.
A strengthened Swindon to Oxford rail link would form a cornerstone of this future regional transport strategy, improving labour mobility, growing supply chains, and supporting innovation across the Thames Valley economic area.
Swindon and Oxfordshire councils say they will continue working with Great Western Railway, Network Rail and the Department for Transport to support rapid implementation of the service and ensure the community sees the benefits as soon as possible.