Ticket prices for train travel to Europe are projected to decrease, driven by competition for Eurostar as new operators prepare to enter the market. Italian provincial railways have announced plans to run trains through the Channel Tunnel starting in 2029, adding to the current competition from Gemini, a startup backed by Richard Branson, and others. This renewed competition is expected to lead to a fare reduction of up to 30%, with current Eurostar prices starting from £39 for trips to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
London St Pancras High Speed (LSPH) reports that international rail travel is projected to triple, potentially reaching 35 million passengers annually over the next 15 years. A study by consulting firm Steer suggests there is significant capacity in the Channel Tunnel, predicting that up to 18 additional daily services could be viable on existing routes.
To accommodate the increase in passengers and new services, St Pancras is undergoing a redesign, intending to enhance border security and expand capacity to handle more travelers efficiently. The proposal envisions a long-term capacity of 5,000 passengers per hour.
Challenges remain for new operators, including obtaining necessary permissions and addressing maintenance needs at railway depots. LSPH aims to facilitate these developments, with the goal of transforming high-speed international rail travel by reducing fares and expanding destinations across Europe.
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