THE delayed electrification of the railway between Oxford and Didcot could leave some new trains stored in sidings, according to a transport commentator.

Rail Minister Paul Maynard announced yesterday electrification between Oxford and Didcot Parkway was one of four schemes being ‘deferred’ although no timeframe has been given for when the work will take place.

Deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council Rodney Rose said this morning: ''The Council is disappointed at the deferral of GWR electrification, especially as revised timescales for completing the project have not been confirmed, although we understand that Government needs to prioritise funding for the most beneficial rail projects. 

“Oxfordshire's top priority is East West Rail, and the early delivery of this project that Government has already committed to would demonstrate that badly-needed investment in the railway is able to come forward, to meet Oxfordshire and national growth needs.

“We remain committed to working with Government and East West Rail consortium partners to get it up and running as soon as possible."

Mr Maynard said benefits expected by passengers - newer trains with more capacity – could still be introduced and the decision would ‘free up’ between £146m and £165m.

Oxford-based public transport expert Hugh Jaeger said: “It’s worrying that the work is being deferred and no date has yet been given for the work to be completed.

“This is the worst rail news for Oxfordshire since the 1960s - new Hitachi Intercity trains have been ordered by Great Western Railway and they will still be able to operate.

“However, about 40 four-coach electric trains have also been ordered and the ones destined for Oxford could have to sit in sidings until electrification takes place - this is a backwards step.”

Great Western Railway spokesman James Davis said the company was determined its passengers should see improvements by 2019, including the replacement of Intercity 125 high speed trains with Hitachi Intercity express trains.

He said: “We aim to deliver 9,000 extra seats on trains across the network including on trains running between Oxford and London Paddington.

“There could also be journey-time improvements on long-distance journeys - journey time improvements from Oxford to London is not something we have promised.”

Last year Network Rail’s plans for electrification – including the tracks between Oxford and Didcot – were reported to have risen in cost from £1.6bn to as much as £2.8bn.

Mark Langman, Network Rail’s Western route managing director, said: “The Great Western main line is undergoing a huge rail investment programme to enable new and upgraded trains with more seats and faster, greener journeys.

“The changes announced will deliver those benefits to the greatest number of passengers in the shortest possible time. The programme remains challenging but good progress is being made.”