Swindon Borough Council is poised to formally demand the introduction of a daily direct train service connecting the town with Oxford. A motion calling for the new link is set to be debated and is expected to pass comfortably, given the Labour group's significant majority in the council chamber.
Motion Details and Expected Benefits
The motion, to be presented by Councillor Kevin Small, the cabinet member for finance, argues that a daily direct rail link will significantly improve commuting, tourism, and supply-chain connections between the two key economic centres. It highlights the potential for quicker, greener travel, a reduction in car use and road congestion, and support for wider sustainable transport goals.
The proposal references the ambitious plans for a Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority, which aims to unlock £18.7 billion in annual economic output by 2040. Establishing a direct daily service between Swindon and Oxford is framed as a crucial step towards achieving these regional economic ambitions.
Path Forward and Political Support
If the motion is approved, council leader Councillor Jim Robbins will be instructed to contact Great Western Railway (GWR), Network Rail, and the Department for Transport. He will urge government support to transform existing Saturday trial services into a permanent seven-day operation.
The push has notable political backing. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, who is also the MP for Swindon South, has previously voiced support for better rail links from the town. Earlier this week, she told the Swindon Advertiser: "I'd like to see whether we could do more to give us better connections to cities like Oxford." She emphasised the importance of affordable fares in making such connections viable for leisure and business travel.
Proposal Backed by Pilot Scheme Evidence
Councillor Small pointed to a successful weekend pilot of direct Swindon to Oxford services run by Great Western Railway this year as evidence of demand. "The service was popular and well-used," he stated.
Critically, a report suggests that an hourly Oxford–Swindon–Bath–Bristol service could be initiated with zero new infrastructure costs. Network Rail has indicated there is sufficient track capacity, making the proposal likely to be revenue neutral or even positive for operators.
The operational change would slash journey times, offering savings of approximately 30 minutes between Swindon and Oxford, and about 75 minutes between Swindon and Bristol.
The council meeting where the motion will be debated is scheduled to commence at 7pm on Thursday, 15 January 2026.
