Cheaper train services could run between London and Paris as alternatives to Eurostar if new proposals get off the ground.
The cheaper trains would be slower, with longer journey times, but would be in a better position to compete with budget airlines. Getlink, which operates the Eurotunnel, is proposing a new route that would begin in Stratford, east London, and terminate at Roissy station – close to Charles de Gaulle Airport – to the north of Paris.
Getlink chairman Jacques Gounon told The Telegraph: “Rail transport is about to be transformed in the same way as air travel was between 2003 and 2005, with the appearance of budget airlines in Europe. The rail market is ready for budget and premium services to coexist.”
Currently, Eurostar trips take around 2.2o hours and depart from St Pancras. The new link between Stratford and Paris would take just over three hours, but 25-30 per cent lower operating costs would mean lower fares for passengers.
“Stratford Station has benefited from good public transport links since the 2012 Olympic Games and offers very fast access to central London.” the Getlink chairman added.