How will Virgin change Channel Tunnel rail travel?

Virgin Trains will soon be able to run passenger services through the Channel Tunnel, challenging Eurostar's decades-long monopoly.

- SIMON CALDER TRAVEL CORRESPONDENT

According to regulator the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), Sir Richard Branson's company will be able to operate from London to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.

Eurostar has exclusively run passenger trains in the Channel Tunnel since its inception in 1994. But the government ruling means that Virgin can use Temple Mills, an east London train depot, to maintain and store its trains. Access is crucial for the operation of cross-Channel routes.

The move is set to bring better services and lower fares on trains to the continent - but not until 2030.

Sir Richard said: “It’s time to end this 30-year monopoly. We’re going to shakeup the cross-Channel route for good and give consumers the choice they deserve.”

But other contenders for the right to run trains through the tunnel are bitterly disappointed.

The news comes just days after Eurostar announced a €2bn (£1.7bn) investment in new double-decker trains.

Here is everything you need to know about the Virgin Trains Channel Tunnel route.

What’s happening with Channel Tunnel rail?

Eurostar has had a monopoly on passenger trains for the entirety of the Channel Tunnel’s 32-year history. While fares as low as £39 each way are available on Eurostar, prices soar closer to departure time.

Anyone wanting to travel to Paris tomorrow from London St Pancras will pay a minimum of £219 on Eurostar, compared with £87 on easyJet. The 150 per cent premium demonstrates the dominant market position held by Eurostar - as well as the appeal of a city centre-to-city centre link with a large free baggage allowance.

Jason Geall of American Express Business Travel says: “Eurostar currently makes up almost three-quarters of business travel trips between the UK and France.”