Direct train travel between London and Bordeaux has come a step closer following the launch of a review to upgrade Bordeaux Saint Jean station. On October 10, infrastructure managers SNCF-Réseau, Eurotunnel, Lisea and HS1 jointly launched a feasibility study to look at the necessary station adaptations to create an open access high-speed route for an operator.
The study will scope the requirements and costs for new border control and security facilities to allow passengers to travel directly to London St Pancras from Bordeaux Saint Jean station without the need to change trains. The new service would take under five hours and is made possible by the recent opening of the LGV Sud-Europe Atlantique high-speed line between Tours and Bordeaux.