Virgin moves closer to launching Eurostar rival in 2030

LONDON — British company Virgin has been granted permission to operate new cross-Channel train services starting in 2030, according to the country's rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). This development brings Virgin closer to launching a competitor to Eurostar, the existing passenger service that has dominated the London-Paris, London-Brussels, and London-Amsterdam routes since 1994.

Virgin Trains will be allowed to run up to 20 daily return services between London and Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam during the period from October 1, 2030, to the end of 2040.

Founded by entrepreneur Richard Branson, Virgin aims to disrupt cross-Channel rail traffic by challenging Eurostar's monopoly. This move is seen as a significant step towards increasing competition and growth in the market for international rail services. Martin Jones, deputy director of access and international at the ORR, expressed support for Virgin and the broader industry in expanding international services.

Before Virgin can launch its services, it must procure trains for the route, secure access to other rail networks, and obtain safety approvals from both British and European Union authorities. Last year, Virgin was granted access to the Temple Mills International site for maintaining and storing trains, a crucial requirement for launching services.

Although the Channel tunnel currently operates at about 50% capacity, previous attempts to introduce new services have faced challenges, including regulatory hurdles and limited station capacity. Passengers are optimistic that allowing competition will lead to lower ticket prices, as fares from trains often exceed the cost of flights from Paris to London.

Several companies have announced plans to launch rival services through the Channel tunnel, with Italy's Trenitalia aiming to start a competitor service by 2029. Eurostar reported transporting a record 20 million passengers last year.