KCR line may complete the link from Beijing

The KCR's line could be used to complete the final stage of the Beijing-to-Hong Kong railway next year.

The move is one of several options being investigated by the company to connect with the line. Other options include changing trains at Guangzhou to ride the KCR's through-train; changing trains to the KCR at Lowu; or joining the Beijing railway to the KCR West Rail next century.

The route was officially opened last week and provides a service to Shenzhen. It will start running to the territory after the handover of sovereignty next year.

Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation chairman and chief executive officer Kevin Hyde said discussion with mainland rail authorities had begun to establish if their trains could run on the existing line from Lowu.

'Trains would have to be compatible to do this,' he said.

'More capacity on the existing line may need to be built.' Mr Hyde also revealed yesterday his tentative plans to move to England once his contract expired in December. He announced last week he would not seek to renew his contract.