Council leaders in Swindon and Oxfordshire have welcomed confirmation from Rail Minister Peter Hendy that the Government supports progressing a two-hourly direct rail service between Swindon and Oxford.
The proposed regular link would build on a successful Saturday trial operated by Great Western Railway, which ran direct services between Bristol Temple Meads and Oxford calling at Swindon.
In a letter to Swindon Borough Council Leader Councillor Jim Robbins, Lord Hendy acknowledged strong local and regional backing for the scheme and recognised the strategic importance of strengthening rail connectivity between two of the country’s fastest-growing economies.
Boost for commuters and businesses
Last month, Swindon councillors backed a motion put forward by Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Kevin Small, calling for a direct daily service to support economic growth in both Swindon and Oxfordshire.
Supporters say the service would:
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Improve commuting options
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Strengthen tourism and supply-chain connections
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Provide quicker, greener travel
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Reduce congestion on the A420
The Saturday trial demonstrated strong passenger demand and confirmed that sufficient track capacity exists without the need for major new infrastructure — a key factor in securing ministerial backing.
Councillor Robbins said:
“This is exactly the kind of practical, high-impact improvement our region needs and we have worked tirelessly to make the case that Swindon deserves better, more sustainable transport links. The Minister’s response shows our message is getting through.”
Backed by regional evidence
The proposal reflects years of evidence-gathering by England’s Economic Heartland, whose connectivity studies consistently identified the Swindon–Oxford corridor as a priority for improved east–west rail services.
The plans also align with ambitions across the region to establish a Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority, which could unlock up to £18.7bn in additional economic output by 2040 through devolved powers over transport, housing and growth.
A strengthened Swindon to Oxford rail connection is expected to play a central role in that wider strategy, improving labour mobility, supporting innovation and enhancing supply chains across the Thames Valley.
Councillor Robbins added:
“The detailed evidence from England’s Economic Heartland has been vital in strengthening our case and showing that this service isn’t just desirable, but deliverable, cost-effective and essential for future growth.
“This is more than just a rail service. It’s a foundation for a more connected, prosperous and strategically co-ordinated Thames Valley.”
Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said many residents had long campaigned for direct trains between the two areas and welcomed the positive update.
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, described the proposal as “very welcome news”, adding that a direct and reliable connection to Swindon, Bristol and the West would support business growth, investment and sustainable travel choices.
She also highlighted how projects such as the Cowley Branch Line and Oxford Station improvements demonstrate what can be achieved through collaboration between local and national partners.
Swindon and Oxfordshire councils will now continue working with Great Western Railway, Network Rail and the Department for Transport to support rapid implementation of the service.
