Virgin Gains Approval to Compete with Eurostar on Channel Tunnel Route

Virgin Trains has obtained approval from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to operate international services, posing competition to Eurostar’s routes through the Channel Tunnel. This decision marks a significant shift in the region’s rail travel landscape.

Key Details of Virgin’s Expansion Plans

The ORR’s approval is seen as a breakthrough for passengers, as it is expected to enhance competition and improve service quality. The investment measures would amount to approximately £700 million and are likely to create around 400 jobs.

Requirements for Virgin Trains

• Establish a commercial agreement with Eurostar.
• Secure financing for operations.
• Gain access to necessary track and station facilities.
• Obtain safety approvals from UK and EU regulators.

Statements from Key Figures

Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, emphasized the importance of this decision for consumers, stating it ends a 30-year monopoly in cross-Channel rail travel. Rail Minister Lord Hendy echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the approval would enhance consumer choice and connectivity, thereby driving innovation and making travel more affordable.

Future Service Routes

Virgin’s new services are slated to begin operations by 2030, with projected routes including:

• London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord
• London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi
• London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal

Subsequent expansions into France, Germany, and Switzerland are also in the works.

Background on Virgin Trains

This initiative marks the return of Virgin Trains to international services for the first time since 2019. They had previously operated a successful service from London Euston to Scotland for 22 years before losing the franchise to Avanti West Coast.

Competing Applications

Alongside Virgin, other companies had shown interest in launching services across the English Channel, including:

• Evolyn, a Spanish start-up
• A collaborative effort between Gemini Trains and Uber
• Trenitalia

However, the ORR has only approved Virgin’s application, dismissing the others as competitors.

Moving Forward

While the ORR acknowledges that Virgin has several steps to complete before launching services, there is optimism regarding the future of rail travel between the UK and mainland Europe.