Brief
Rail minister backs international trains stopping at Stratford International
Lord Hendy says Stratford International could host Eurostar and Virgin services, with a ten‑year access agreement for St Pancras tracks.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said the government is backing a proposal for international high‑speed trains to call at Stratford International as a second London terminus. The support was reported by the Standard on 30 September 2026.
Hendy told the outlet that Stratford’s existing interchange and its growth potential make it a logical addition for cross‑Channel services. He said the government is engaging with industry partners to make the change happen.
Virgin’s spokesperson confirmed the rail firm has secured track access at St Pancras High‑Speed and will invest in the Temple Mills depot, creating skilled jobs. The spokesperson added that Virgin is exploring further stops, including Stratford, Ebbsfleet and Ashford.
East Ham MP Sir Stephen Timms, who first raised the idea in the 1980s, welcomed the commercial opportunity and urged Virgin to include Stratford in its plans.
Key facts
- Rail Minister Lord Hendy publicly supports adding Stratford International as a stop for international high‑speed trains. (standard.co.uk)
- Virgin has been awarded track access on London St Pancras High‑Speed and plans investment at the Temple Mills depot. (standard.co.uk)
- The proposed access agreement runs from 1 October 2030 to 31 December 2040. (standard.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “International trains stopping at second London station wins key backing from minister”
