Cross-Channel and domestic rail fares could be cut after a regulator announced proposals to lower fees for train operators r(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

Eurostar and Southeastern fares could be cut as regulator looks to lower charges

Demand for seats on Eurostar services has soared since the end of coronavirus travel restrictions despite an increase in fares

by · The Mirror

Cross-Channel and domestic rail fares could be cut as a regulator has proposed to reduce fees for train operators running services between London St Pancras and the Channel Tunnel.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) suggested that Eurostar and Southeastern should see their usage fees for the High Speed 1 (HS1) line cut by 7.7% and 10.8% respectively from April 2025 for five years.

For freight users, charges should be cut by 66%. HS1 is used by Eurostar trains to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam; domestic Southeastern services between London and Kent, and within Kent; and freight trains heading to and from the Channel Tunnel.

Despite an increase in fares, demand for seats on Eurostar services has skyrocketed since the lifting of Covid travel restrictions. The ORR's proposal to lower access charges comes after a review of the company’s spending plans, which found "good quality" plans but also "opportunities" for "further efficiency", resulting in savings to its passenger and freight train operator customers.

Feras Alshaker, ORR director for planning and performance, said: "The High Speed 1 line is a vital connection between the UK and continental Europe, and makes a crucial contribution to the UK economy, supporting growth. It is important that it continues to be a resilient, high-performing network for both passengers and freight users."

HS1 Ltd's chief strategy and regulation officer, Mattias Bjornfors, welcomed the ORR's backing, saying: "We welcome the ORR’s support for our plan for the next five years and acknowledgement of our success during the current control period. Our plan for 2025-2030 included several proposals to reduce charges for freight and transport operators which have been accepted."

Bjornfors also pointed out past achievements and future expectations: "HS1 has already driven down costs and improved performance by investing in innovative technologies and working with partners to make multimillion-pound savings and reduce train delays. We anticipate further services on the HS1 route will lead to lower charges for operators."