Eurostar has called for rival rail operators to invest in new depot facilities to help unlock the potential for greater international rail travel between the UK and mainland Europe.
Several companies, including Virgin Group and FS Italiane Group, which owns Trenitalia, have announced plans to challenge Eurostar by launching high-speed rail services between the UK and Europe.
Earlier this month, the UK’s rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), stated that Eurostar’s existing depot at Temple Mills in London could accommodate additional trains from rival companies if needed.
However, Eurostar responded by urging for a long-term strategy for international rail, which would support the ambitions of all operators. The company stressed that it is essential to encourage private investment in new depot facilities beyond Temple Mills.
Eurostar also pointed out that the ORR’s report did not take into account its own plans to invest €2 billion in purchasing up to 50 new trains and increasing the use of its current fleet to provide more services.
The company suggested that new depot facilities could be considered in other locations, including Kent and East London, and called on other operators to make investments in these areas.
Gareth Williams, Eurostar’s general secretary, emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment. “We support competition and growth in international rail,” he said, “but without significant investment in infrastructure to create more space, we risk missing out on the tremendous potential for sustainable European travel.”
He added, “This is a positive problem to address, as there is both demand and willingness. Eurostar is ready to contribute to finding solutions. What’s needed now is a broader vision and investment by any operator wishing to invest in new depot facilities, both at Temple Mills and beyond.”
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