Bletchley and Bicester Railway Line

HC Deb 16 June 1999 vol 333 cc137-8W

Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to receive plans for the re-opening of the Bletchley and Bicester railway line; what level of expenditure on this line is planned by his Department; and if he will make a statement. [86895]

Ms Glenda Jackson

The East-West Rail Group, a consortium of local authorities, have proposed re-opening this section of line as part of their proposal for opening up an East-West rail route which would extend from Oxford to Ipswich via Bicester, Bletchley, Bedford and Cambridge. I understand they have arranged for Railtrack to carry out a feasibility study which is expected to be completed in a few weeks. Subject to the outcome of the feasibility study it will be for the consortium to seek sources of funding for any plans it decides to pursue. The Department will consider any proposals that may be put to it.