A rail line linking Oxford and Cambridge has moved a step closer.

The Government today announced the preferred route for the central section of East West Rail, which could see a significant boost for transport connectivity across the Oxford-Cambridge Arc.

Following consultation last year, the preferred route is expected to see the new rail line run from Bedford to Cambridge, serving new stations along the way.

READ AGAIN: East West Rail link moves forward

This will lead to the Government making a final decision on whether to take this project forward, and to make an application for a Developed Consent Order.

Paul Maynard, the Minister responsible for East West Rail, and Minister for Future of Transport George Freeman, both welcomed progress on the project as an important step towards improving connectivity.

Oxford Mail:

The East West Rail Company will now take forward work to develop more detailed route alignment proposals, in consultation with the local communities.

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Minister for Future of Transport George Freeman said: "East-West Rail has the potential to improve rail links to support opportunities for new housing, reduce congestion and pollution and unlock the economic potential across the region."

Minister for East West Rail Paul Maynard said: "East West Rail could help us revolutionise transport in the Oxford-Cambridge arc, increasing people’s access to job opportunities while making travel quicker, cheaper and easier.

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"Today’s announcement, following our £500m fund to bring back lines and stations lost during closures in the 1960s, shows we’re backing up our commitment to improving access to opportunities across the country."

Multinational design and engineering firm Arup has been appointed to lead a consortium which will design the track and lead public consultation work.