New Rail Services Could Connect East London to Paris by 2030

East London might soon find itself just a train ride away from Paris, as Virgin Trains explores the possibility of launching cross-Channel services from Stratford International. This shift comes after the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) granted Virgin approval to operate up to 20 daily return journeys to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam starting in October 2030, potentially breaking Eurostar's long-standing monopoly on this route.

The initial phase of Virgin's timetable will feature six return services to Paris each day, ramping up to ten by April 2031 and eventually reaching thirteen by October 2031. In a move to enhance accessibility, there are discussions about including Stratford International as a stop, alongside the established Eurostar hub at St Pancras International.

Local MP Sir Stephen Timms has expressed enthusiasm for the prospect, highlighting that such international train services could stimulate regeneration in East London. Virgin Trains has also announced plans to invest £700 million into the project, which is expected to create hundreds of jobs, including skilled positions at the Temple Mills depot. A representative for Virgin confirmed their commitment to exploring additional station stops, including Stratford International, as they prepare to establish a new presence in the European rail market.

Source: www.cntraveller.com