Virgin takes step towards running Channel Tunnel rail services
Virgin has received regulatory approval to operate rail services between London and mainland Europe starting in 2030. This move aims to break Eurostar's long-standing monopoly on the route, though Virgin still needs to secure rolling stock and safety certifications.
Why it matters
Increased competition on international rail routes could lead to lower prices and improved service quality for cross-border travelers.
Image source, Virgin Trains Image caption, An artist's impression of a Virgin train at St Pancras International
Virgin's plans to run rail services between London and Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam have moved closer after it was granted track access by the UK regulator.
The company has been given approval to run up to 20 daily return services through the Channel Tunnel by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), with the agreement running from 1 October 2030 to 31 December 2040.
The ORR said , external it was "a significant step forward" in introducing competition on the route, where Eurostar has held a monopoly on passenger services since the tunnel opened in 1994.
However, the regulator said Virgin still had to secure rolling stock for the services and get safety approval from UK and EU authorities.
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