Sir – In an exciting improvement to our rail network, Chiltern Railways plans to link the Oxford-Bicester line to the Bicester-London Marylebone line by means of a short new curve at Bicester.

This will open a rapid alternative route from Oxford to London via High Wycombe.

This excellent promotion is made possible by a private sector business arrangement between Chiltern Railways and Network Rail. This will not, therefore, have the detrimental effect on Government spending which Paul Withrington (Letters, November 11) fears. It will allow Chiltern Railways to carry more passengers at reasonable fares, something which Railfuture applauds. The project costs reflect the track renewal required following years of underinvestment by successive governments.

However, passenger revenues will be significantly increased by these developments.

Use of the renewed line will be further enhanced when the section from Bicester to Milton Keynes is reopened.

Freight trains have always used much of this line, which greatly helps to free up traffic flow on our roads.

This gives our market economy the safer, integrated transport network it needs. Commuters will have more choice and better access to the train with Chiltern’s plan.

I encourage Mr Withrington to take a train journey; it can be a stress-free and comfortable way to travel.

Park the car at the station, or better still, take the bus or cycle to the station, secure in the knowledge that your carbon dioxide emissions will be markedly reduced.

David Eldridge, Committee member — Railfuture, Thames Valley Branch, Berinsfield