On the 30th anniversary of the opening of Ashford International as a high-speed rail link to the continent, local leaders, business campaigners and rail stakeholders sounded a rallying cry for the return of international services to the station.
Services to and from Ashford to Europe ceased six years ago, with current operators Eurostar offering no prospect of them starting again.
The anniversary, on Thursday 8 January, saw attendees discuss the compelling economic need for restoring links to the continent – unlocking significant tourism and inward investment, and creating jobs and opportunities for business growth in Kent, East Sussex and the wider South East region. Attendees included Helena Dollimore, MP for Hastings and Rye, who has long campaigned for the return of services to the station.
Councillor Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, made a strong economic argument for restoring services. “Our station was a gateway for business success and unforgettable family journeys. Re-opening international services would save our residents and businesses around £16.5 million a year, inject over £500 million annually into the visitor economy, and unlock billions in wider growth.”
The high-speed line is currently operating at just 50% capacity, passing through but not stopping at Ashford International. That extra capacity could readily be filled by re-opening the station.
Restoring services would cut travel times to Paris and Brussels by up to two hours compared to current routes, support sustainable travel and reduce reliance on air transport.
Robert Sinclair, CEO at London St. Pancras Highspeed said, “We are committed to seeing our railway and stations used to their full potential. Ashford International station offers an opportunity for international operators to maximise their exposure to the UK market.”
Sarah Broadbent, Chair of the destination marketing organisation, 1066 Country, said, “The visitor economy in the 1066 region is valued at over £900m and supports 21% of all jobs. At a time when industry bodies like Visit Britain warn that the UK is losing its competitive edge in tourism compared to Europe, Ashford International offers us an exceptional opportunity for reasserting our impact on and benefit from the European market.”
Image Credits: Countrywide/ABC .