More high speed Channel Tunnel rail services signalled by regulator 

Eurostar and potential rivals are being offered the chance to provide more high speed cross-channel services.

 

The rail regulator has written to Eurostar and new applicants  to set out next steps for assigning access to Temple Mills International train maintenance depot (TMI) in north London. 

 

Access to TMI is considered crucial because it is the only UK facility with the facilities to support trains that can be used in the Channel Tunnel and on European tracks,  according to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).

 

The regulator commissioned an independent assessment of capacity at TMI earlier in the year following access applications from a number of potential operators, including Virgin Rail.

 

“The regulator’s initial findings were that there is some capacity available at TMI for more trains without any changes to current practices, and some capacity could be delivered through further investment,” the ORR said.

 

“ORR subsequently gave stakeholders, including incumbent Eurostar, an opportunity to provide evidence that would change or support the report’s findings. 

 

”ORR has now reviewed this evidence and concluded that the independent assessment is an accurate reflection of available capacity at TMI. 

 

“Taken together with Eurostar and applicants’ initial plans, the assessment suggests there is room for at most one new operator, or for Eurostar to grow.”

 

ORR added that it now needs Eurostar and applicants to provide the detail of their plans “so it can decide on the best allocation of capacity”. 

 

It added: “ORR will work quickly to assess plans but is ensuring Eurostar and applicants have enough time to present a robust case. ORR expects to be able to reach a conclusion on access to TMI later this year.”

 

ORR will take a decision by October 31 using its “established approach to deciding competing demands for rail capacity”. 

 

This will include considering:

• Availability of capacity
• How proposed services will impact operational performance
• Financial and operational readiness and viability
• Economic and societal benefits associated with the applications
• Views of stakeholders.

Martin Jones, deputy director, access and international, said: “The growing appetite to provide international rail services is great news for passengers. 

 

“We now need operators to set out more detail on their proposals at pace, and will work quickly and as thoroughly as possible to determine the best use of capacity at Temple Mills.”

 

A Eurostar spokesperson said: “Eurostar welcomes the ORR’s continued focus on the future of international rail and the vital infrastructure and investment needed to unleash the full potential of sustainable travel.

 

“Capacity at Temple Mills is limited and while the ORR report suggests some space could be created, it is not sufficient to meet the ambitions of all potential operators plus Eurostar’s own ambitious plans for growth.

 

“Therefore, we welcome the ORR’s call for more information on future plans and continue to encourage private investment in new depot facilities beyond Temple Mills, of which there are many options.

 

“Eurostar is already investing in the future with a new fleet of up to 50 trains, enhancing facilities at Temple Mills, and partnership work to expand capacity at stations, including London St Pancras International.

 

“It’s clear a strategic, joined-up approach is needed to unlock the full potential of international rail for passengers and the UK economy. We remain committed to working with the ORR, government, and industry to secure long-term solutions that enable growth across the sector.”