Jump to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAmelia NeathWednesday 09 September 2026 11:36 BSTVirgin to challenge Eurostar’s monopoly with Channel Tunnel servicesVirgin Trains is exploring plans to include a stop at Stratford International in east London for its proposed cross-Channel rail service.Local MP Sir Stephen Timms has urged the operator to use the station, highlighting the fast-growing commercial opportunity in the area.Despite sitting on the High Speed 1 rail line, Stratford International has never hosted international train services since it opened.Virgin has received approval from the Office of Rail and Road to run up to 20 daily return services between London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.The operator is also considering future stops at Ebbsfleet and Ashford in Kent if those stations are reopened for international travel.In fullThis London station could finally get international trains as Virgin eyes France routeMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in