It was part of the axis 16 of the Trans-European Transport Network from 2004 to 2011, a construction project of large freight corridors of the European Union. October 19th, 2011 Trans-European Transport Network was revised and the TCP no longer appears of first interest. Nowadays, there is no clear provision on its construction.

Ten possible alternatives are being considered. All the alternatives would require the construction of a very long Trans-Pyrenean tunnel at low altitude, to avoid having to climb the slopes of the Pyrenees which would drastically limit the capacity of freight trains. The required length of the mentioned tunnel varies according to the selected alternative between 62.6 and 34.9 kilometres. It would also be necessary to build other shorter tunnels to complete the line, which according to alternative would totally mean between 49 and 119 kilometres of tunnels.

Several small platforms are opposing the project in both side of the Pyrenees whereas some lobbies still support it. It could be a project of interest for the Spanish state for avoiding the passage through Mediterranean (Catalonia) and Atlantic (Basque Country) corridors. In fact, those two states have been pushing for more autonomy or even independence for long time, while the Spanish state wants to have the infrastructure project under its complete control. The two main Spanish political parties have manifested their interest in the TCP being prioritised by the EU.