 With relations between the MR and the LNWR deteriorating, Watkin turned his attention to the proposal to link to Aylesbury. Negotiations between the A & B and the GWR had broken down, and Watkin seized an opportunity to agree running rights over the A & B's route north from Aylesbury, taking over the line completely in 1891. In 1888 work began on the extension to Aylesbury.
