Eurostar Train Services Still Ignored Kent Stations Two Years On
Despite fierce demands from Kent officials, Eurostar trains have not stopped at Ebbsfleet or Ashford since March 2020. Instead, passengers from Kent are forced to endure a frustrating detour to St Pancras, only to travel almost back past their own doorsteps as trains speed through Kent en route to the Channel Tunnel.
Kent Leaders Slam Eurostar’s Delay
Kent County Council leader Roger Gough slammed the lack of progress, saying he is “disappointed the trains’ reintroduction has yet to occur.” He’s calling on Eurostar for clear reasons behind their refusal to restart Kent stops, demanding transparency on what would make services in Kent viable “in their eyes.”
Gerry Clarkson, Ashford Borough Council leader, warned the ongoing suspension at Ashford International is a “real challenge” for locals, businesses, and station workers relying on the service.
Eurostar Pushes Back Restart To 2023 Amid Profit Woes
Eurostar originally hoped to resume Kent stops in 2022. But with passenger numbers and profits still tanking, that has now been shelved until at least 2023. A Eurostar spokesperson bluntly told us: “Kent services will not resume this year.” They promised only to “revisit the decision near the end of the year.”
Green Councillor Demands Swift Resumption As Eurostar Snubs Kent
Environmentalist Green county councillor Rich Lehmann blasted the situation, calling the extra journeys through Kent stations “a pointless waste” when trains aren’t actually stopping to pick up or drop off passengers.
Despite talks involving Kent County Council, local transport authorities, and Ashford Borough Council, Eurostar remains firm. One insider said: “It is a no from us!” Kent travellers are left in limbo, stuck waiting for a service that’s been absent for over two years.
