10 February 2009

Eurostar sets date for resumption of full timetable

Eurostar plans to revert to a full timetable of services through the Channel Tunnel before the end of the month.

The high-speed passenger service will revert to a full timetable with more frequent services and faster non-stop journey times of 1 hour 51 to Brussels and 2 hours 15 to Paris from February 23.

A new direct Ashford-Brussels service, originally planned for December but delayed by the restrictions on tunnel capacity since September 11, will start.

The move follows restoration of full capacity through the Channel Tunnel following last year’s fire.

Eurostar will continue to operate its existing departure times until February 22.

"This short change-over period will enable Eurostar to implement the switch to its full timetable with the minimum of disruption to travellers," a statement said.

There will be more trains, with up to 19 services a day on the London-Paris route and up to 10 on the London-Brussels route.

Chief executive Richard Brown said: "The return to journey times of roundly just two hours between London, Paris and Brussels is good news for business travellers who want to make day trips without the cost of overnight stays.

"For leisure travellers, it means shorter journeys that make Eurostar the fastest and best value way of getting away from it all, for a spring break on the continent."

"We’re pleased that Eurotunnel and its contractors have finished the repairs so quickly. The last few months have at times been frustrating for our travellers and we’re looking forward to once again offering them the best service that we possibly can."

by Phil Davies