A new study has revealed that demand for international rail travel from the UK is projected to triple over the next 15 years. The number of passengers is set to grow from 11 million to 35 million annually if additional capacity is introduced.
The research, commissioned by London St Pancras, the operator of the UK’s high-speed rail, indicates that increased competition on the HS1 line could result in fare reductions of up to 30%. The study suggests that this growth could also support up to 18 additional daily services on current routes, along with the possibility of launching trains to five new destinations in western Europe.
This report follows the announcement last week from London St Pancras of new financial incentives aimed at encouraging operators to boost services on the HS1 line, which runs from St Pancras station to the Channel Tunnel. Currently, the line is operating at just 50% capacity, with Eurostar being the only operator.
However, a recent feasibility study by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has given a green light to increasing competition on the route. Trenitalia, the latest company to show interest, is looking to introduce services between London and Paris. Other companies, including Richard Branson’s Virgin Group and new startup Gemini Trains, have already expressed similar intentions.
Train operators who qualify for the HS1 incentive will receive discounts on the Investment Recovery Charge, which covers the cost of running services on the line. They will also receive bonuses for increasing passenger numbers.
Additionally, there are plans to expand the international passenger capacity at St Pancras station. The station’s capacity will rise to nearly 5,000 passengers per hour to accommodate the expected growth in travel.
A recent agreement with Eurotunnel, which manages the Channel Tunnel, is expected to reduce journey times, improve coordination, and encourage more services and routes.
Robert Sinclair, CEO of London St Pancras Highspeed, commented, “This report signals a major transformation in international high-speed rail. More passengers are choosing rail over air travel due to environmental concerns and the comfort of direct city-to-city travel.”
He added, “With focused effort, we can triple passenger numbers, lower fares, and open up new destinations across Europe. Our growth incentive is a key step in making this vision a reality, helping operators introduce new services faster and shaping a promising future for international rail travel.”
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