Virgin Considers Relaunching UK Train Services After Contract Expires: Exclusive Insights
VIRGIN is looking at returning to the UK’s rail network with brand new train services being considered. The final Virgin service ran in December 2019 after the company’s contract was taken over by Avanti. However, it could soon provide rail travel on the east coast mainline once again, with details being worked out before an official move is made.
Virgin’s Future Plans on the East Coast Mainline
The plans were revealed by Virgin’s CEO Josh Bayliss, who described the company’s former service as “one of the best-loved and most successful rail franchises in the UK”. Should they return, it would be as an “open access” operator, similar to companies like Lumo and Grand Central.
Virgin’s Reentry Into the UK Rail Network
Bayliss told the Times: “The opportunity which open access presents to continue to provide that experience on the rail network is something that is very interesting to us. “We would love to be able to serve those customers who so enjoyed Virgin on the UK rail network.”
Potential Hurdles and Speculations
One thing that could throw a spanner in the works is Labour’s promise to bring back British Rail, should they win the next election. However, Bayliss insists this isn’t something that Virgin is worried about, saying he doesn’t believe they have any intention of nationalising the entire network within the UK. Instead, he sees an opportunity for Virgin whoever is in charge after this year’s general election.
Future Plans and Expansion
While plans are being drawn up to see how viable it is for the company to return to the UK rails, no final decision has been made just yet, so it could be a while before the service resumes.
Virgin’s Expansion Beyond the UK
However, the east coast mainline isn’t the only one Virgin has its eyes on. Last November it was revealed that Sir Richard Branson also has his eyes on international train travel for Virgin. The company is also considering launching a new service from the UK to Europe to rival Eurostar.
Exciting Prospects and Opportunities
Bayliss added: “It’s a huge undertaking to establish a new operator in the industry and in that market. We’re continuing to advance our preparation and delighted with progress so far.” If it does go ahead, the service would offer more routes to France, as well as other destinations including Brussels and Amsterdam. And with more competition, this could mean cheaper tickets.
Future of Train Travel: Connecting the UK to the World
Meanwhile, this new train service is set to launch in the UK next year and travel to some of the country’s prettiest towns. And this new route could link the UK to Switzerland, cutting out the need to fly.