Varsity Line

Image: © Andrew Bodman Taken: 10 Sep 2018

The Varsity Line connected Oxford and Cambridge and train services ran on the section between Bedford and Cambridge until the end of 1967 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varsity_Line . Plans are underway to reopen the line in stages between Oxford and Cambridge, and the route is now known as East West Rail. Some local authorities have taken steps to protect disused rail routes. Hence much of the original alignment between Oxford and Bedford will be/is being reused as it was because it was not built over in the meantime. However, there are several places between Bedford and Cambridge where the old route has been built over, and consequently a completely fresh route is likely to be constructed for this section. This is one of three blocks of flats that have recently been built on the former alignment of the Varsity Line by Willow Road, Potton. They are not far from the business premises in Shannon Place, also built over the Varsity Line. Yet there are other places in this village where the corridor of the old line remains intact. More details of future plans for East West Rail are available from https://www.eastwestrail.org.uk/central-section-overview/

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