Eurostar is not simply a train operator but a piece of national infrastructure that boosts Britain’s economy, provides high-quality jobs and builds deep cultural ties, according to a new report published on July 8 in London. The study, commissioned from policy consultancy Public First and titled *Fast track to growth: Boosting Britain through international high speed rail*, is described by Eurostar as ‘the most comprehensive assessment of international high-speed rail’s contribution to the UK to date’.
Launching the report in London, Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave said: ‘This research shows what Eurostar already delivers – and why international rail is worth investing in.’ She argued that expanding international high-speed rail services would make the UK economy more competitive, more productive and better connected. ‘We want to show that international rail is worth investing in, through private money and through a bold public framework. Now is the time to act to ensure Britain plays a leading role in Europe’s high speed rail future,’ Cazenave added.
“Eurostar report says it boosts UK economy and is national infrastructure, urging investment in high-speed rail.”
The report’s findings come as the operator seeks to underline its economic significance at a time when the UK government is considering future transport investment priorities. Eurostar’s assertion that it functions as national infrastructure rather than just a commercial service could have implications for how it is treated in policy decisions and access to public funding. Whether the Treasury and the Department for Transport will heed the call for a ‘bold public framework’ remains to be seen.