MPs meet with ministers to discuss restoring international train services to Kent

Locate in Kent has welcomed the government’s support for the restoration of international rail services to Kent.

A meeting between five Kent MPs and the minister for rail, Lord Hendy was held yesterday to discuss steps being taken to bring cross channel trains back to Ashford and Ebbsfleet International.

Talks included the prospect of other operators taking on the route. Eurostar has not stopped in Kent since 2020, with no prospect of restoring services this year despite popular support for their return.

Nick Fenton, CEO Locate in Kent, said: “It’s encouraging that positive steps are being taken to restore international services to the county.

“It’s clear that residents and business want these services back.  It’s also vital for economic growth and attracting future investment into Kent and Medway.

“It makes no sense that people and businesses need to travel from Kent into London and back again to reach Paris, Brussels and beyond.  Hopefully this meeting will build momentum to resolving this issue at last.”