Network Rail plans £650m expansion for Universal resort opening

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 13:03 · Archive

Network Rail is planning a £650 million rail expansion to prepare for a new Universal theme park opening in 2031.

Network Rail is planning a £650 million expansion of the East West Rail line to prepare for a new Universal theme park opening in 2031. The project will be carried out by the East West Rail alliance, comprising Laing O'Rourke, VolkerRail, and AtkinsRéalis, without fresh competition as they extend their ongoing work on the Marston Vale Line.

The expansion includes upgrades between Bletchley and Stewartby, the Oxford Parkway to Bletchley route, and work at Milton Keynes Central station. Key elements involve double tracking between Bletchley and Fenny Stratford, a new track layout at Stewartby, passing loops, electrification, and re-signalling. Station improvements at Winslow, Bletchley, and Stewartby are also included, along with level crossing closures, bridge and underpass works, drainage, and earthworks.

Network Rail states that appointing a new contractor could create significant risks and duplicate work. The proposed deal has an estimated ceiling of £650 million, excluding VAT, and remains subject to funding and necessary approvals. Some station arrangements and a potential train maintenance depot will be procured separately. Capacity improvements are expected to arrive gradually from the early 2030s.

How it is being reported

• Network Rail plans £650m rail expansion ahead of Universal resort openingNetwork Rail is lined up for a £650 million expansion project ahead of anticipated demand from a new theme park.Oxford Mail · 21 Oct, 12:30
• Network Rail plans £650m rail expansion ahead of Universal resort openingNetwork Rail is lined up for a £650 million expansion project ahead of anticipated demand from a new theme park.Oxfordshire Guardian · 21 Oct, 12:30

In this story: Network Rail · East West Rail · Universal · Bletchley · Stewartby · Milton Keynes · Oxford Parkway

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