The UK Government has formally agreed to work with Germany on plans for direct train services between the two countries.
The agreement was set out in a new Bilateral Treaty on Thursday 17 July by the UK Prime Minister and German Chancellor Merz. It includes establishing a joint taskforce to explore the commercial and technical requirements for a direct rail link.
Government agrees landmark plans to lay down the tracks for direct trains to Germany
© GOV.UK
The proposed link aims to provide a more convenient travel option between the UK and Germany. It forms part of the Government’s Plan for Change, which aims to improve international rail connectivity, support economic growth, and reduce carbon emissions by offering an alternative to air travel.
The UK’s Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said:
We’re pioneering a new era of European rail connectivity and are determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected continent.
The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie – in just a matter of years, rail passengers in the UK could be able to visit these iconic sights direct from the comfort of a train, thanks to a direct connection linking London and Berlin.
This landmark agreement has the potential to fundamentally change how millions of people travel between our two countries, offering a faster, more convenient and significantly greener alternative to flying.
The joint taskforce will bring together transport experts from both governments. Its work will focus on identifying practical steps required to enable direct long-distance rail passenger services. This includes looking at safety standards, security and border controls, and potential collaboration with rail operators.
Both countries plan to support sustainable and accessible transport solutions, and the proposed link is intended to contribute to wider efforts to decarbonise travel. The governments also believe that the new rail connection could stimulate trade and investment while helping to create jobs.
Heidi Alexander added:
A new task force will bring our nations closer together and create new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange, building on a landmark deal we signed earlier this year to explore introducing direct services to Switzerland.
The economic potential is enormous. A direct rail link would support the creation of jobs and strengthen the vital trade links that underpin our economic relationship with Germany. British businesses will have better access to European markets, whilst German companies will find it easier to invest and operate in the UK.
The partnership builds on a similar agreement signed earlier this year between the UK and Switzerland, which is examining the feasibility of future direct rail services between London and Swiss cities.
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