Virgin Trains Cross-Channel Expansion Approved by ORR
31.10.2025
Virgin Trains has been approved to go ahead with cross-Channel expansion on the railway between London and big European cities after being blocked from competition in the high-speed market for decades.
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Virgin Trains Plans Bold Cross-Channel Network
Virgin Trains is to start new routes in 2030, connecting London St Pancras to Paris Gare Du Nord, Brussels-Midi, and Amsterdam Centraal stations. The firm further wishes to enter deeper French markets, in addition to Germany and Switzerland.
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If either of the Ebbsfleet International or Ashford International stations opens before the launch, Virgin will introduce halts there. This is expected to enhance connectivity, since London commuters would enjoy easy access to the European network.
The new fleet will run with 12 Avelia Stream trains from Alstom, known for integrating efficiency with passenger comfort. The deal is an extension of the ongoing partnership between the brands, which has been in place for many years and emphasizes innovation and sustainability in railway solutions.
Virgin Trains Partnership with Alstom and Market Impact
Alstom Europe Region President Andrew DeLeone explained that “this new alliance strengthens the commitment of both companies to excellence in technology.” Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson commented that “this new project is yet another milestone in Virgin Group’s history of disruption in new markets in sectors such as air transport, holidays, space exploration, and most recently, cruising.”
The new company will be headed by Phil Whittingham, who previously was the Managing Director of Virgin Trains. He brings with him know-how, which can only enhance the new worldwide service.
“It has been approved, and it will definitely increase consumer choice, and it has the potential to unlock around £700 million of private investment in the railway industry in the coming years,” said Martin Jones, Deputy Director for Access and International at the ORR.
The ORR is ready to help Virgin prepare for operation to take advantage of the expansion to benefit both commuters and the railway industry in the entire UK.
Virgin has the vision to ‘transform cross-Channel travel’ via competition, technology, and focusing on customers. Virgin’s entry can completely change the traveling experience and can further enhance growth in the European high-speed rail corridor.
Source: www.railadvent.co.uk
News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:
What is Virgin Trains planning with its new Cross-Channel service?
Virgin Trains plans to launch high-speed services from London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam by 2030, using Alstom-built Avelia Stream trains.
How will Virgin Trains impact competition in European rail?
Virgin’s entry will introduce long-awaited competition to Eurostar, expanding travel choices and driving investment in modern rail infrastructure.
Who will lead the Virgin Trains project?
Former Managing Director Phil Whittingham will lead the new venture, ensuring experienced leadership and continuity in Virgin’s rail operations.
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