20th February 2025
Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame recently met with Chiltern Railways at Haddenham and Thame Parkway to discuss the ongoing issue of overcrowding on services and to request improvements to the station. A major focus of the meeting was urging the government to approve new rolling stock by March in order to improve capacity and comfort on local rail services.
Chiltern Railways representatives explained that if the government does not approve their business case and replacement trains are not provided, their ageing rolling stock will become less reliable which could result in fewer services running in the future..
In addition to discussing the critical need for increased rail capacity, Freddie welcomed Chiltern Railways’ plans to invest in Haddenham and Thame Parkway. He highlighted the station’s current parking constraints since the closure of the upper deck but was pleased to receive assurances that it would reopen following necessary safety works.
Further positive news emerged with the approval of additional funding from Oxfordshire County Council to advance the Thame to Haddenham Greenway project. Freddie looks forward to seeing the Greenway progress, which will create a sustainable transport link, reduce emissions, and encourage healthier living for local communities.
Freddie van Mierlo said:
“It’s critical the government approves the new rolling stock by March for Chiltern Railways to improve capacity and comfort. If it doesn’t, things won’t just stay the same, they will get worse! I’m urging the government to do right by rail passengers and hard-working commuters.”
