UK Government launches market engagement on new international rail depot capacity
Written By
Partner
UK
As a London-based partner in our Commercial practice, I support clients at the intersection of government and business.
Associate
UK
I am an associate in Bird & Bird's projects team, supporting public and private sector clients with their procurements and major projects.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a preliminary market engagement exercise on the development of new international passenger rail depot capacity in London and the South East.
Policy objective
The Government’s goal is to enable greater competition to Eurostar and support the launch of new international routes from the UK into mainland Europe. Eurostar is already procuring 30–50 new trainsets, with expansion plans including services to Switzerland and Germany. Other operators have expressed interest in entering the cross-Channel market in recent years.
Market opportunity
A shortage of UK-based depot and stabling capacity has been a key constraint on sector growth. Through this exercise, DfT is seeking to test private investor appetite to finance, build and operate new facilities capable of serving multiple operators. Initial engagement meetings are scheduled for the week commencing 3 November 2025.
How Bird & Bird can help
Bird & Bird has extensive rail expertise in the UK and across the EU, with particular strengths in financing, procurement, infrastructure and regulatory matters. Our team advises investors, operators, manufacturers and public authorities on complex and high-profile rail projects.
Next steps
We will be monitoring developments closely and attending the market engagement sessions. If you would like to discuss the potential opportunities or implications for your organisation, please contact Andrew Dean.
