The ambitious Crossrail project will now be extended as far as Reading.

According to officials, the move will see the east-west network serve two additional stations, bringing the total number to 40. In addition, the proposals will open up a wider variation of transport opportunities and extend the benefits of reduced journey times to more and more people.

Under the new plans, two trains per hour will run from Reading, allowing passengers the opportunity to travel into, and beyond central London without needing to change at Paddington. It is also intended provide greater flexibility in terms of timetabling. 

Boris Johnson, the mayor of London, commented: "I am thrilled the people of Reading and Twyford will be able to take advantage of Crossrail, putting them on the doorstep of London's main employment centres."

Transport bosses stated there would be no change to the planned Great Western services between the two cities, while fast mainline trains will continue to operate at the same stations as they do today.