Virgin to Compete with Eurostar on Channel Tunnel Route

Virgin Trains is set to challenge Eurostar on the Channel Tunnel route following a recent decision by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). The regulator has confirmed that the Temple Mills depot can accommodate either an expanded Eurostar fleet or another company’s trains, but not both simultaneously.

Key Developments in Virgin’s Plans

The ORR outlined several necessary steps for Virgin Trains to commence international services. These include:

• Formation of a commercial agreement with Eurostar.
• Securing sufficient financing.
• Gaining access to tracks and stations.
• Obtaining safety approvals from UK and EU authorities.

Despite these challenges, the ORR’s decision is anticipated to lead to a significant investment of approximately £700 million and create around 400 new jobs. The agency praised this move as beneficial for passengers, increasing customer choice, and stimulating economic growth.

Support from Key Figures

Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, expressed his satisfaction with the ORR’s ruling. He stated, “This decision is crucial for consumers. It’s time to break the 30-year monopoly and introduce some Virgin innovation to the cross-Channel route.”

Rail Minister Lord Hendy also welcomed the ORR’s decision, emphasizing its importance for consumers. He highlighted that allowing Virgin Trains to utilize the depot would enhance passenger choices, improve connectivity, and promote greener transport options within Europe.

Future Plans for Virgin Trains

Martin Jones, deputy director of Access and International at the ORR, confirmed the agency’s readiness to collaborate with Virgin Trains as they finalize their plans. Several firms, including Spanish start-up Evolyn and a partnership between Gemini Trains and Uber, have sought to introduce services between London and mainland Europe. However, only Virgin’s application received approval.

Virgin Trains aims to launch rail services from London St Pancras to various European destinations by 2030. Proposed routes include:

• Paris Gare du Nord
• Brussels-Midi
• Amsterdam Centraal

Future expansions may extend into Germany and Switzerland. This initiative marks Virgin Trains’ return to the industry, having not operated since losing its contract to Avanti West Coast in 2019. Previously, Virgin Trains ran services from London Euston through Birmingham and Manchester to Scotland for 22 years before being disqualified from the bidding process.