Since the opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994, Eurostar has held a monopoly on high-speed passenger trains between the United Kingdom and mainland Europe.
Virgin, the rail company owned by billionaire Richard Branson, has received approval from the UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to utilize a crucial depot in East London. This development means that, starting in 2030, travelers may have the option to choose between two high-speed services through the tunnel, leading to increased competition and potentially lower fares.
The depot is essential for the maintenance of long-distance trains. Until now, Eurostar had exclusive access to the facility, preventing other companies from offering high-speed connections through the tunnel.
Italian operator Trenitalia and the Spanish group Evolyn also sought access to the depot, but Virgin was the only entity able to secure the necessary funding to bring the plan to fruition.
Branson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are ready to shake up the train services through the Channel. Travelers will soon have more choices and better services.”
