Steps to see a return of international travel from Kent stations were taken today amid plans for new operators to take over in Eurostar’s absence.
The train firm has not stopped at either Ashford or Ebbsfleet International stations since 2020, during the early stages of the pandemic.
Despite repeated calls for Eurostar to return, the company has confirmed it will not happen this year, a move which continues to frustrates Kent passengers.
Today, five Labour MPs met with the minister for rail, Lord Hendy, to see what steps the Government is taking to see the return of train travel to the continent for foot passengers.
Those attending the meeting – Sojan Joseph for Ashford, Polly Billington for East Thanet, Tony Vaughan for Folkestone and Hythe, Lauren Edwards for Rochester and Strood and Helena Dollimore for Rye and Hastings – described the progress made as “positive”.
Discussions included the prospect of other operators taking on the route in Eurostar’s absence.
It comes as Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin expressed an interest in securing its own cross-channel rail service last month.
According to The Telegraph, the company run by the billionaire boss wants to operate trains from the UK to the continent by 2029.
Start-up Evolyn is also planning to operate on the route, and in 2023 said it would start running trains this year.
The main condition facing new companies would be access to the line, however, the Department for Transport stated it would support measures to overcome this issue.
Mr Joseph, who was elected as MP last year, said “I was very happy with the outcome of today’s meeting and grateful for Lord Hendygiving us his time.
“Having the Government’s support for our cause to bring international travel back to Ashford is a huge boost, however, I know there is still a lot of work to do – but we won’t shy away from the challenge.
“It would be a massive benefit to my constituents, local businesses, and our regional economy if we can make this happen.”
Ms Billington added: “Residents in East Thanet would love to see a return of international services to Ashford, giving them the chance to save time in getting to Europe for both work and holidays.
“Eurostar don’t seem to see the value or opportunity in restoring these services but it’s clear from our discussions that the Labour government understands what a difference it could make for businesses and families, jobs and growth.
“I will continue to campaign with my fellow Labour MPs across Kent and beyond to see trains to and from Ashford to Paris and beyond.”
Mr Vaughan said the meeting was “really encouraging”, while Ms Edwards said residents and businesses in her constituency have a “big appetite” to get the service restored.
In September 2023, Gareth Williams, Eurostar’s general secretary, said the firm wants to bring its services back to Kent – but the impact of Brexit and “hundreds of millions” of pounds of Covid debt means it cannot yet afford to.
Later that year, a petition was started to see it return, which has amassed more than 60,700 signatures.
