However, Getlink’s new plan aims to go further. The company is hoping for a fast rollout and aims to double the number of direct high-speed train routes from the UK over the next 10 years.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Channel Tunnel and Getlink said it wants to celebrate the occasion by advancing this high-speed rail expansion. 

Eurotunnel has also been working closely with European infrastructure managers, regulators and manufacturers to achieve this goal.

Both organisations are focusing on market research, standardising tunnel regulations and preparing network connections for travel.

Yann Leriche, the Chief Executive of Getlink, said: “The Channel Tunnel is the catalyst for the acceleration of high-speed passenger traffic between London and Europe’s major cities. 

“The attractiveness of the Open Access model and the impetus driven by Eurotunnel as infrastructure manager to develop new destinations are key factors in the growth of low-carbon mobility between the UK and continental Europe.”

Under Getlink’s watchful eye, the Channel Tunnel has transported nearly 490 million passengers and 101 million vehicles since its opening in 1994. 

The tunnel currently handles 25% of trade between the UK and the continent.

If successful, the project could make it easier for UK travellers to reach Cologne, Frankfurt, Geneva and Zurich by rail, cutting down the need for flights and offering a more environmentally friendly alternative.