Three Rail Companies Agree to Study Direct Train Links Between UK and Switzerland

May 12, 2026, 12:03
EuropeInternational

Introduction

Eurostar, SBB, and SNCF Voyageurs have signed an agreement to study whether it is possible to create a direct high-speed rail connection between London and major Swiss cities.

Main Body

The project aims to solve the problem of slow rail travel compared to the high number of flights between Switzerland and the UK. Currently, traveling from London to Zurich takes at least seven and a half hours and requires a transfer. However, the proposed direct service could reduce travel times to six hours for Zurich, 5.5 hours for Geneva, and five hours for Basel. This initiative shows a strong collaboration between the three rail operators and the governments of both countries. Despite the goals, the project faces several challenges. The companies must agree on international rules, update physical tracks, and organize border control procedures. Because of these issues, the timeline for the project is quite long. While Swiss Transport Minister Albert Rosti suggested it could take five to ten years, Eurostar emphasized that the service might not be ready until the 2030s. At the same time, competition in the cross-channel rail market is growing. Virgin Trains has received permission to use the Temple Mills International rail depot. Consequently, this will allow Virgin to launch its own services from London St Pancras by 2030.

Conclusion

The project is still in the early planning stages, and the service is not expected to start until the 2030s once all technical and legal requirements are met.

Learning

⚡ The 'Connective Leap': Moving Beyond 'And' and 'But'

At the A2 level, you likely connect ideas using simple words like and, but, and because. To reach B2, you need Connectors of Result and Contrast. These words act as signals to the listener, making your speech sound professional and logical.

🔍 The Analysis

Look at how the article moves from a problem to a result. It doesn't just say "There are problems, so it is slow." Instead, it uses:

  • "Consequently" →\rightarrow Used to show a direct result.
    • Example: "Virgin Trains got permission. Consequently, they will launch services."
  • "Despite" →\rightarrow Used to show a surprise or a contradiction.
    • Example: "Despite the goals, the project faces challenges."

🛠️ B2 Upgrade Path

Stop using the same basic words. Try these replacements based on the text:

Instead of (A2)...Try this (B2)...Why?
SoextConsequently/Therefore ext{Consequently / Therefore}It sounds more formal and precise.
ButextDespite/However ext{Despite / However}It creates a stronger contrast between two facts.
AlsoextAtthesametime ext{At the same time}It shows that two things are happening simultaneously.

💡 Pro Tip for Fluency

Notice that "Despite" is followed by a noun or a phrase (e.g., Despite the goals), not a full sentence. If you want to use a full sentence, use "However" at the start of a new sentence to pivot the conversation. This small change is a hallmark of B2 proficiency.

Vocabulary Learning

agreement (n.)
A formal arrangement or contract between two or more parties.
Example:The agreement between Eurostar and SBB was signed last week.
study (v.)
To investigate or examine something in detail.
Example:They will study the feasibility of a direct train link.
possible (adj.)
Capable of being done or achieved.
Example:It is possible to reduce travel time by six hours.
direct (adj.)
Going straight from one place to another without stopping.
Example:The proposed direct service would cut travel time.
high-speed (adj.)
Operating at a very fast speed.
Example:High-speed trains can travel at 300 km/h.
rail (n.)
A system of tracks used by trains.
Example:The rail network connects major cities.
connection (n.)
A link or relationship between two points.
Example:A new connection between London and Zurich will be built.
solve (v.)
To find a solution to a problem.
Example:The project aims to solve the slow travel issue.
problem (n.)
A difficulty or issue that needs to be addressed.
Example:The problem is the long travel time.
collaboration (n.)
Working together with others to achieve a goal.
Example:The collaboration between the three rail operators is strong.
challenges (n.)
Difficulties or obstacles that must be overcome.
Example:The project faces several challenges.
international (adj.)
Relating to more than one country.
Example:They must agree on international rules.
timeline (n.)
A schedule of events or deadlines.
Example:The timeline for the project is quite long.
competition (n.)
The rivalry between businesses.
Example:Competition in the cross-channel rail market is growing.
permission (n.)
Official approval to do something.
Example:Virgin Trains received permission to use the depot.
launch (v.)
To start or introduce a new service.
Example:They will launch new trains by 2030.
technical (adj.)
Relating to technology or machinery.
Example:The project requires technical upgrades.
legal (adj.)
Relating to the law.
Example:All legal requirements must be met.