Chiltern Railways will run trains on a new line linking Oxford and Milton Keynes in the first phase of the East West Rail project, the Department for Transport has announced.
The new line will initially link Oxford and Milton Keynes for the first time in nearly 60 years.
The move is expected to support almost 100 new jobs at Chiltern Railways.
Plans for East West Rail, which will launch later this year, involve extending the line to Cambridge via Bedford.
Rail minister Lord Hendy said: “Appointing Chiltern Railways to run the first East West Rail services is one of the crucial last steps in getting the line up and running later this year, and means local people in the area are closer to experiencing the benefits of this transformative project.
“This milestone demonstrates that we are serious about unlocking the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, providing greater connectivity across the region and delivering on our Plan for Change mission to drive economic growth.”
Richard Allan, managing director of Chiltern Railways, said: “The first stage of East West Rail will provide fast, direct train services between Oxford and Milton Keynes and we are delighted that Chiltern has been announced as operator.
“Chiltern has a proud track record of delivering new services and infrastructure, including our London to Oxford connections and introduction of new stations at Oxford Parkway and Bicester Village.”
David Hughes, chief executive of East West Railway Company, said: “This is a huge milestone which will allow Chiltern Railways to deliver a much-needed rail service linking the dynamic cities of Oxford and Milton Keynes, providing new opportunities for commuters and leisure travellers alike.
“This is the first part of East West Rail’s vision to extend services to Bedford and Cambridge, which will transform connectivity across the region and unlock new opportunities for economic growth.”
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