Understand
Government to look into restoring international train services to Ashford
Overview
The Prime Minister has stated that the government will explore the possibility of bringing international rail services back to Ashford railway station in Kent, following widespread public backing and interest from other operators. International stops at Ashford were suspended during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and have not yet resumed, with Eurostar stating it has no current plans to serve Kent stations. However, Virgin Trains plans to launch cross-Channel services by 2030 and has indicated it would stop in Kent if the stations are reopened.
Key points
- The government will look into restoring international train services to Ashford railway station.
- International services at Ashford were suspended during the Covid pandemic in 2020.
- Over 82,000 people previously backed a campaign to bring international rail services back to Kent.
- Virgin Trains plans to introduce cross-Channel services from 2030 and has stated it will stop in Kent if the stations reopen.
- Eurostar stated it has no plans to resume stops at Kent stations, citing low passenger numbers prior to the pandemic.