Virgin Trains has been granted approval by the Office of Rail and Road to utilize Eurostar’s east London train depot, a move that will enable the company to introduce international services through the Channel Tunnel. This decision marks the end of Eurostar’s longstanding monopoly on Channel services since its inception in 1994. The ORR’s authorization allows Virgin Group, led by Sir Richard Branson, to utilize the Temple Mills facility for train maintenance and storage.
Although Virgin Group has not been actively operating trains in the UK following the expiration of its contract for the West Coast Main Line in December 2019, the ORR’s decision opens the door for the company to venture into international rail services. The rejected application by Virgin Trains to operate access services on the West Coast Main Line, connecting major cities like London, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester, did not deter the company’s pursuit of international expansion.
Martin Jones of the ORR emphasized that the approval promotes customer choice and competition in international rail travel, potentially attracting up to £700 million in private sector investments and driving economic growth. While the implementation of new services will take time, the ORR expressed readiness to collaborate with Virgin Trains as their plans progress.
Sir Richard Branson welcomed the ORR’s decision, highlighting its benefits for consumers and signaling the end of a three-decade monopoly in the cross-Channel route. Rail minister Lord Hendy also commended the approval, anticipating enhanced passenger options, affordability, and connectivity benefits for millions. Plans are underway to explore the establishment of additional depot capacity in the UK through private investment to support market demands and foster competition and growth.
Despite the Channel Tunnel’s current utilization at only 50% capacity, accommodating LeShuttle vehicle-carrying trains between Folkestone and Calais, the ORR turned down applications from Evolyn, Gemini Trains, and Trenitalia to utilize the Temple Mills depot. Eurostar’s bid to expand its operations by utilizing the depot’s spare capacity was also unsuccessful.
Receive email updates with the latest news stories.
