Virgin gets track access for Eurostar rival in 2030

Virgin has been granted track access to run planned cross-Channel train services from 2030, moving it closer to launching a rival to Eurostar, Britain's rail regulator said Monday.

The Office of Rail and Road said the agreement allows Virgin Trains to operate up to 20 daily return services between London and Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam from October 1, 2030 to the end of 2040.

Virgin, founded by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, is seeking to challenge Eurostar's monopoly on passenger services through the Channel tunnel between Britain and France.

Martin Jones, deputy director of access and international at the regulator, called the decision an important next step for competition and growth in international rail services, but said more work remained.

Before services can run, Virgin still needs to obtain trains for the route, gain access to other rail networks and secure safety approvals from British and European Union authorities.

Virgin was granted access last year to the Temple Mills International site for maintaining and storing trains. Several companies have announced plans to launch competing Channel tunnel services, with Italy's Trenitalia planning a rival service by 2029.