Eurostar has announced the appointment of an independent consultant to assess possibilities for maintaining its train service from Amsterdam Central Station to London, in the face of extensive renovations planned for the Dutch capital’s station. This decision follows a recent visit by Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave to the bustling train station.
During her visit, Cazenave held discussions with ProRail, the Dutch railroad infrastructure company, as well as Dutch national railway NS and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. The renovation plans pose a challenge as the space currently utilized for passport control checks will no longer be available from June onwards, thus Eurostar operations from Amsterdam will be temporarily halted until May 2025.
Efforts are underway to establish a temporary terminal in the Amstelpassage beneath the station, moving the new Eurostar terminal to one of the passageways under the tracks, but its completion is still pending.
This disruption prompted Eurostar to explore other viable options for maintaining the service, rather than limiting it solely to Rotterdam and London, as this would result in low passenger numbers due to limited space at the Rotterdam station. The restricted capacity at Rotterdam station, where only 160 passengers can board in a train with capability of accommodating up to 900 passengers, would result in insufficient revenue.
In a statement, Eurostar confirmed that all parties involved have agreed to the appointment of an independent consultant renowned for their expertise in rail and train stations, to conduct an independent audit and propose solutions to address the concerns of all stakeholders.
The consultant’s role will be pivotal in exploring alternative approaches and identifying potential solutions to ensure the continuation of Eurostar’s service between Amsterdam and London. By engaging an independent expert, Eurostar aims to find a sustainable and mutually beneficial outcome for all parties involved. The company remains committed to providing seamless travel experiences for its passengers and maintaining its reputation as a premier international rail service.
Passengers and stakeholders are advised to stay updated on Eurostar’s official announcements, as the independent consultant begins their evaluation and presents recommendations. Eurostar will continue to work closely with all relevant parties to mitigate the impact of the renovation project on the vital Amsterdam-London route.
