Plans to extend the new high-speed Eurostar line from London's St Pancras International to Heathrow Airport have been unveiled.
The plans by UK-based engineering firm Arup claim journey times between Heathrow Airport and Paris could be less than two and a half hours.
The Eurostar line could be extended via Paddington station, which is already connected to Heathrow airport by rail.
The company also sees an opportunity to extend the high-speed network beyond Heathrow, Arup spokesperson Mark Bostock says.
"We could serve Heathrow before going north to Birmingham and beyond."
The plans would also have on impact on areas along the route.
"Not to be forgotten is the opportunity this also provides for UK regional regeneration – connecting the overheated Thames Valley and south midlands with the growth areas of the Thames Gateway and Kent," Bostock says
The plans are still in the preliminary stages and have not yet received support from the British Government.
By Tim McAtackney
