There is clear consumer interest in competition potentially delivering cheaper tickets.

Eurostar reported a record 20 million passengers last year, underscoring the market potential for new entrants.

Deputy director Martin Jones frames the decision as supporting competition and growth in international rail, with ongoing collaboration to advance the project.

Jones notes the ORR’s move is important for competition and passenger benefits as international services expand.

Virgin Trains has been granted track access to operate cross-Channel services, moving closer to launching a Eurostar rival by 2030.

London St Pancras High Speed and Virgin Trains emphasize competition and growth in the international rail market.

Eurostar acknowledges growth opportunities for international rail but remains focused on its own investments, including new fleets and major orders with Alstom.

News of new entrants may spur greater competition and price reductions in the Paris–London rail market, where fares can exceed air costs.

London St. Pancras High Speed says the HS1 line is currently operating at about half capacity, suggesting room for more traffic once competition grows.

The ORR calls the pre-approval an important next step but notes further work remains, including access to additional rail networks and safety approvals from ORR and EU regulators.

Approval follows Virgin Trains gaining access to Eurostar’s Temple Mills depot in east London for maintenance and storage, a prerequisite since Temple Mills is the sole depot linked to High Speed 1.

Passengers and consumers hope that new competition will push ticket prices down, especially since train fares between Paris and London are often higher than similar airfares.