The Virgin Group has announced a “landmark decision” by the rail regulator that allows it to press ahead with plans to launch a rival train service through the Channel Tunnel.
Rail regulator the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has approved Virgin’s use of the Temple Mills International depot in East London.
Virgin says this “landmark decision” means it can now move ahead with its plans to launch a rival international train service through the Channel Tunnel, introducing competition on the route for the first time.
Eurostar has had exclusive use of the Channel Tunnel up to now, with around 400 trains passing through the tunnel each day.
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.
“We’re going to shake up the cross-Channel route for good and give consumers the choice they deserve.”
Virgin Trains disappeared from UK rail altogether when it lost its West Coast Main Line franchise in 2019....