Another train operator reveals plans for new routes from London to Paris by 2029
ANOTHER potential competitor to the Eurostar has emerged with plans to launch a new high-speed rail service between London and Paris.
FS Italiane Group has announced plans to establish a new train service between the two capitals by 2029, adding to a number of other operators looking at high-speed connections across Europe.
The Group has currently committed €1billion (£856.3million) to support its goal of building its European rail network.
The project has gained momentum following the recent report from the UK Office of Rail and Road (ORR) for access to the Temple Mills maintenance depot – which is a key requirement for operating through the Eurotunnel.
The Group hopes to enhance rail competitiveness on the Paris-London route, which provides an alternative to air travel and is currently dominated by the Eurostar.
In addition, the Group has made an agreement with Spanish mobility company Evolyn to support the project.
Stefano Antonio Donnarumma, FS Group CEO and general manager stated: “This investment is a decisive step forward in FS Group’s vision of building a more integrated, competitive and sustainable European rail network, in line with the objectives of the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, which places an increasing focus on passenger transport abroad to accelerate FS Group’s international development.
“High-speed rail networks are the backbone of efficient and environmentally friendly mobility, and by expanding our presence on key corridors, we are not just investing in infrastructure and innovation, but also in the future of European transport.
“More competition will help to create a more efficient and customer-oriented industry, offering a real alternative to air travel.”
FS Italiane Group has been operating in France since 2021 and also has a presence in the UK through c2c and Avanti West Coast, which serve over three million passengers.
The operator also already has permits in place in France and is continuing to work with key stakeholders to meet regulatory requirements.
The Group is planning for additional capacity at London St. Pancras station and exploring funding options to support the project.
Access to the the Temple Mills maintenance depot for European-style trains and storage has been a major obstacle up until now for the potential competitors to Eurostar.
However, the ORR report revealed that the depot does have capacity for rival train services.
Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group also recently commented following the report, that it “is ready to take up the challenge” of launching passenger train services through the Channel Tunnel.
Other groups looking to launch a service through the Eurotunnel includeGemini, a new train operator which is currently being established.
Spanish startup, Evolyn, is also looking to launch high-speed rail services, including a cross-channel service, and is aiming to run its first trains in 2025.
And London St. Pancras Highspeed recently announced a new incentive scheme to grow international rail services, by giving train operators a discount on the costs of using the live to run services.
By maximising the number of international services on the line, passengers will have greater choice between operators and benefit from lower fares.
Last year, Eurostar announced plans for 50 new trains and new European routes.