Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

East West Rail: Aylesbury Spur

24 May 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Rob Butler Con Aylesbury

EconomyTransportClimate

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rob Butler raised concerns about east west rail: aylesbury spur in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The Member for Aylesbury argues that the Aylesbury spur is crucial for improving connectivity and integrating with local transport systems.
  • The Aylesbury spur has a benefit-cost ratio of 1.3-2.4, compared to HS2's 1.2, and includes uncertain wider economic benefits.
  • The Minister acknowledges Rob Butler's case and expresses willingness to support the project through the comprehensive spending review later this year.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Rob Butler Con Aylesbury

The Member for Aylesbury argues that the Aylesbury spur, part of phase 2 of East West Rail, is crucial for his constituents. The project will improve connectivity between towns, integrate with local transport systems, and support a sustainable future. Despite having historical rail connections lost over time, Aylesbury faces significant traffic congestion due to rapid population growth. The Aylesbury spur has a strong economic case with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.3-2.4, compared to HS2's 1.2, which includes uncertain wider economic benefits. It would reduce journey times from Aylesbury to Milton Keynes by 75%, and unlike HS2, the spur requires minor adjustments to existing freight tracks rather than substantial new construction. The project also aligns with net-zero goals and could boost tourism in Aylesbury. Rob Butler requests funding approval for the Aylesbury spur.

Other contributors (1)
  • Greg Smith Con Buckingham

    Supporting the case made by Rob Butler, Greg Smith highlights that East West Rail is vital for Buckinghamshire's connectivity. He emphasises that despite previous disruptions from construction, the Aylesbury spur could unlock significant benefits and economic prosperity.

Government Response

Chris Heaton-Harris

The Minister acknowledges Rob Butler’s case for the Aylesbury spur and expresses willingness to support it through the comprehensive spending review later this year. The Government has committed £760 million for phase 2 between Bicester and Bletchley but notes that a strong economic case must be made for proceeding with the Aylesbury spur. Chris Heaton-Harris emphasises ongoing work to drive down costs and strengthen the case, while also highlighting existing Government investments in Aylesbury’s infrastructure. The Minister encourages local contributions and continued collaboration to deliver the project.

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