Eurostar and the Competitor Landscape briefing paper

Cross-channel rail is approaching an important moment which will determine its future. Four companies have announced that they want to provide a rival service to Eurostar. A decision is expected in October that will influence which one is likely to succeed.

The pinch point for cross-Channel operators is maintenance depot space. The UK has only one depot capable of handling international high-speed trains, Temple Mills in London. Eurostar currrently have the sole use of Temple Mills and are fighting to keep it that way. But the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has recently ruled that the depot does have space for one other operator.

In October, the ORR will choose a company to which to allocate that space. This decision will have far-reaching consequences for cross-channel rail and for Kent. All four interested companies, as well as Eurostar themselves, have made detailed submissions to the ORR in the hope of being chosen for the space in Temple Mills. This is likely to determine who, if anyone, will begin a new cross-Channel train service.

BBET’s contribution

Bring Back Euro Trains has published a briefing paper to help navigate the complexities of the different submissions, which are all on the ORR website. We agree with the Rail Minister Lord Hendy who told the ORR:

“…The Government strongly welcomes the fact that several new entrants are exploring the possiblity of serving … the currently unused Stratford, Ebbsfleet and Ashford International stations.”

We look forward to the decision. We hope that the ORR will make it a condition of allocating space at Temple Mills that the new operator, or Eurostar if they are chosen, reinstate the station stops in Kent.

Last updated on September 26th, 2025