Rail Switzerland London: Declaration for direct connection signed

Post on: 12.05.2025

A historic step towards integration of the railway between Switzerland and London. 8 May, Federal Councillor Albert Rö Head of the Federal Department of Education, environment, transport, (DETEC), met with the UK Transport Minister Heidi Alexander in London to sign a declaration of aims to create a direct rail link between the two countries.

Un' sustainable alternative to air traffic

Currently, the demand for travel between Switzerland and Great Britain is high, as evidenced by the numerous flights between London and Swiss airports. However, both nations recognize the potential of a direct rail alternative, especially if supported by good travel times and a efficient infrastructure.

« A direct rail connection between Switzerland and Great Britain è An ambitious goal. With today's statement, we are laying the groundwork to jointly assess the concrete next steps to be taken," said Rö Sti. « Such a link would send a strong signal to international public transport and to relations with Britain.

Swiss Rail London | Technical and policy challenges

Key obstacles include; The exit of the United Kingdom from the Schengen area: passenger control terminals will therefore be needed directly at railway stations. In this regard, Rö sti and Alexander visited the Eurostar terminal in London's St Pancras station, which had already been operational for international connections.

In addition to customs and security considerations, it will be a trilateral agreement between Switzerland, France and the United Kingdom is necessary, given that the train should pass through French territory before reaching London.

Swiss Railway London | Next steps

Federal Councillor Rö The Commission intends to submit a decision of principle on the draft to the Federal Council by next year. The Medium-term objective to achieve a real direct rail connection between Switzerland and the British capital.

The signing of the declaration therefore represents not only a political promise, but also a concrete will. of international cooperation to promote mobility and strengthen ties between the two nations.