HS1 Ltd, the operator of the UK’s only high-speed rail link, has rebranded as London St. Pancras Highspeed, marking a shift towards a more consumer-focused role in promoting sustainable travel. The company operates the rail connection between London and Europe via the Channel Tunnel, as well as domestic high-speed services linking the capital with Kent through Ebbsfleet and Ashford stations.
The rebrand reflects a growing commitment to encouraging high-speed rail as a viable alternative to short-haul flights. Public demand for train travel continues to rise, with a survey indicating that 60% of Londoners support banning short-haul flights where rail options are available.
Plans for expansion at St. Pancras International
London St. Pancras Highspeed is also exploring options to expand capacity at St. Pancras International, allowing the station to accommodate a greater number of passengers and services. Current plans could see international rail capacity increase from 1,800 passengers per hour to nearly 5,000. Proposed infrastructure improvements, along with streamlined border and security processes, aim to reduce station arrival times and improve overall efficiency.
“This is not simply a change of brand or a new logo. Instead, it signifies an important shift and a desire to play a much more active and supportive role in driving the growth of sustainable travel by high-speed rail. Who we are and what we do as a business has not changed, but our ambition has. It’s evident that a modal shift is taking place for travel, and our new brand reflects this. We believe that growth on our line will have a significant benefit for the UK, opening up more business and tourism opportunities, while bringing Europe closer with fast, city centre to city centre journeys. We have an incredible opportunity and an important responsibility to help maximise the take-up of sustainable rail travel. Together with our partners in the industry, all of us at London St. Pancras Highspeed are excited about the journey ahead,” Robert Sinclair, CEO of London St. Pancras Highspeed, said.
This rebrand and expansion effort align with the broader push towards environmentally friendly transport solutions, ensuring high-speed rail remains a key part of the UK’s sustainable travel landscape.
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