We’re pleased to share plans for how we’ll power trains on East West Rail, as well as information and dates of our public consultation on latest proposals for the project.
As part of our latest proposals, which we'll be sharing for public consultation from 14 November, we’re providing information on our preference for green traction power in the form of discontinuous electrification with hybrid battery-electric trains, after the Chancellor confirmed government support for the project in yesterday’s budget.
As well as reducing carbon emissions, discontinuous electrification would mean overhead lines would only need to be installed along some sections of the route, which would reduce disruption to existing structures and potentially reduce visual impacts in more sensitive locations on the new railway. This option would also cost less than full electrification and would need less land for things such as mast foundations.
To find out more about our approach to the environment, please visit our dedicated webpage here.
About our consultation
From 14 November 2024, we’ll run a 10-week non-statutory consultation, which will invite feedback from communities along the route, providing a crucial opportunity for people to have their say on the latest plans and help shape the future design of the railway.
What will be included in the consultation?
As well as electrification, the consultation will provide the latest designs and information on East West Rail, including:
- A new railway between Bedford and Cambridge
- Essential upgrades to the existing line between Oxford and Bedford
- New stations/upgrades to existing stations
- Proposed service patterns
- Level crossings
- Reducing environmental impacts and our commitment to biodiversity net gain
“This consultation is a pivotal moment in our journey to create a railway that truly serves the needs of our communities and delivers sustainable growth for the region and the whole country by improving access to jobs, education and public services.” David Hughes, CEO of EWR Co
Visit a consultation event near you
Consultation events will be held at various locations along the entire proposed route, including some weekend dates and online events, to widen opportunities for people to widen opportunities for people to attend. A Virtual Consultation Room will also be available, where all the information shown at the public events can be accessed online in a virtual room.
For those unable to attend in person, all consultation materials will be available online, with multiple ways to provide feedback.
Share your views
Listening to and understanding the views of those that East West Rail would serve is fundamental to how the railway is designed, built and operated. Therefore, please share your feedback via our consultation from 14 November 2024 to 24 January 2025.
Consultation 2024 Page