Local MP Urges Government to Approve Plans for Haddenham and Thame Parkway

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, they will lose two locomotives as they reach the end of their lease in December 2027. Without replacement locomotives, the company warned that capacity could be reduced by 10%, further exacerbating the overcrowding issue on services.
 

Upper Parking Deck to Reopen
 

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.”

 

Image: MP for Henley and Thame, Freddie van Mierlo with Michael Stewart, Commercial and Customer Strategy Director at Chiltern Railways.