New train routes linking London with Germany, Switzerland, and France could soon become a reality as part of efforts to increase passenger numbers at St Pancras station. London St Pancras Highspeed, which owns the station and operates the railway to the Channel Tunnel, has set out ambitious plans to boost international rail capacity. Current services accommodate up to 1,800 passengers per hour, but proposals aim to increase this to nearly 5,000. At the heart of this expansion is the desire to bring in new train operators, breaking Eurostar’s current monopoly on cross-Channel routes.

In collaboration with Getlink, which owns the Eurotunnel, London St Pancras Highspeed has committed to improving rail connections between the UK and mainland Europe. Many European cities, including Cologne, Frankfurt, Geneva, Marseille, and Zurich, could be reached within six hours, making train travel a strong competitor to short-haul flights. While no timeline has been confirmed, there is growing interest in opening new services. Virgin Group and Evolyn are among the companies exploring the possibility of launching rival cross-Channel routes, offering passengers greater choice.

The withdrawal of services such as London to Disneyland Paris and the south of France has left a gap in the market, fuelling interest in expanding options at St Pancras. Virgin acknowledged the challenge of establishing a new operator but sees the route as primed for change, with demand for international rail travel steadily rising. Increased competition would not only enhance passenger choice but also drive improvements in service and pricing.

Robert Sinclair, chief executive of London St Pancras Highspeed, emphasised the need for a fully connected European rail network. He confirmed that his company would collaborate with Getlink and potential new operators to expand capacity and develop new routes, positioning rail travel as a sustainable alternative to air travel.