New London-Paris Train Services Pose Challenge to Eurostar

Virgin Founder Richard Branson Aims to Disrupt Eurostar's Decades-Long Monopoly on Cross-Channel Rail Services, potentially re-entering the UK rail sector after Virgin Trains' 2019 cessation.

Phil Whittingham, former Avanti West Coast trains head, is reportedly poised to lead the ambitious venture, eyeing connections between London, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.

Amidst speculation and comparisons to Branson's legendary rivalry with British Airways, this potential challenge to Eurostar aligns with Virgin Atlantic's competition against British Airways in transatlantic flights. However, a spokesperson for Virgin Group maintains a non-disclosure stance on the matter.

The Branson-Eurostar competition intensifies as other contenders enter the scene. Evolyn Mobility Limited plans cross-channel services by 2025, while Dutch player Heuro eyes services linked to the continent starting in 2028. The deliberate opening up of Europe's rail network to dismantle monopolies has led to increased competition, promising lower prices and improved service quality.

As attention shifts from HS2 to HS1, disruptions at Kent International stations are expected until at least 2025. Recent setbacks include route closures to Disneyland Paris, services to Marseille suspension during the pandemic, and an imminent Amsterdam-Trains connection ban due to ongoing renovations at Centraal Station.

Stratford International, despite recent £1.1bn investment in a cultural quarter, lacks the prestige of iconic terminals like St Pancras or Gare du Nord. Despite being a terminus for potential cross-channel services, its current infrastructure is not equipped to efficiently handle international travelers.

Source: schengenvisainfo.com