Landmark depot decision by regulator puts Virgin on track to launch a new international rail service
Virgin plans to launch services in 2030
Virgin is one step closer to making a return to the rail sector after the Office of Rail and Road this week confirmed that it can move ahead with plans to use the Temple Mills International rail depot in East London. The regulatory green signal puts Virgin firmly on course to introduce a rival international train service through the Channel Tunnel.
Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, said: “The ORR’s decision is the right one for consumers – it’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route. Virgin is no stranger to delivering award-winning rail services, and just as we have successfully challenged incumbents in air, cruise and rail, we’re ready to do it again.”
It’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route
Virgin plans to run services from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, Brussels-Midi and Amsterdam Centraal from 2030.
The group has already confirmed a deal with train manufacturer Alstom to buy 12 Avelia Stream trains. Infrastructure investor Equitix will fund them. Virgin will lead the funding of the operating company alongside Equitix and private equity firm Azzurra Capital.
This article appears in the latest issue of Passenger Transport.
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