FS Italiane Group, co-owner of Avanti West Coast, has announced plans to launch a high-speed rail service connecting London and Paris via the Channel Tunnel by 2029. The company will invest one billion euros (£857 million) in the project, utilizing Frecciarossa-inspired trains.
FS Italiane has signed a memorandum of understanding with Evolyn, a Spanish company, for a potential partnership. The company is also exploring opportunities for London to Paris services to call at Ashford, Kent.
Stefano Antonio Donnarumma, FS Group Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, stated that this investment aligns with the company's vision of building a more integrated, competitive, and sustainable European rail network. He added that more competition would create a more efficient and customer-oriented industry, offering a real alternative to air travel.
The Office of Rail and Road has indicated that there is spare capacity at the Temple Mills train depot in Leyton for other operators in addition to Eurostar, potentially paving the way for competitors.