Key Intercity Rail Link Pushed Back Amid Safety Dispute
The highly anticipated opening of a crucial new railway connection between Oxford and Milton Keynes Central has been postponed until 2026, with a contentious debate over driver-only operation (DOO) of trains cited as a primary cause. The East West Rail project, which was scheduled to begin passenger services in late 2025, will now face a significant delay.
Chiltern Railways, the operator chosen by the government in March to run services on this route, confirmed the setback. A spokesperson acknowledged the disappointment for prospective passengers, stating the company had been "working at pace" to prepare but would not be able to commence services before the end of the year.
Union Warns of Industrial Action Over Safety
While some final work on trains and stations remains, the central obstacle is the planned operating model. The RMT union, representing guards and other rail staff, has strongly opposed the decision to run trains with only a driver, warning of potential industrial action.
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey emphasised the necessity of a "safety critical second person" on board trains. He pointed to the recent mass stabbing in Huntingdon as a stark example, where the guard's swift actions in raising the alarm were crucial for coordinating an effective emergency response.
"We need a clear commitment from Chiltern that they will not make their service DOO and a second safety critical member of staff will be a mandatory requirement for the service to run," Dempsey stated. "Our members will take industrial action, if necessary, to defend this role."
Government and Operator Response
Despite the dispute, driver-only operation is not a new concept in the UK, having been introduced in the 1980s. Millions of passengers currently travel daily on such services, including on many existing Chiltern Railways routes. For the new line, Chiltern has already recruited and trained 44 train drivers.
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport (DfT) expressed support for Chiltern Railways, highlighting the project's transformative potential. "The East West Rail project is transformational, unlocking thousands of jobs and homes... it is crucial that services on the completed phase of this programme are allowed to start," the spokesperson said, confirming the department is supporting the operator in its work with unions to get services running.
The delayed line represents the first phase of the broader East West Rail project, which is ultimately planned to connect Oxford with Bedford and Cambridge, including a new station for the proposed Universal theme park.
