Campaign Launched to Restore Eurostar Services in Kent

A significant campaign has emerged in the south east of England, aiming to reinstate Eurostar services to Belgium and mainland Europe. Local residents have initiated a petition that has garnered nearly 60,000 signatures, reflecting widespread concern over the absence of international rail services in Kent, often referred to as “the Garden of England.” Local business and political leaders are joining the call, emphasizing the detrimental impact on the local economy and the reduced appeal for UK visitors traveling to destinations like Brussels and Paris. The petition, titled “Bring Back Eurotrains,” highlights the demand for international train services from Kent’s two international stations, Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International. Campaigners report receiving numerous messages from residents affected by the loss of these services, which previously provided vital connections to Eurostar trains linking London St Pancras with major European cities. Business leaders have voiced their concerns about the economic ramifications of losing this international link over the past five years, urging the government to either restore Eurostar services or allow other operators access to the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. With a new government in place and several Labour MPs elected in constituencies served by Eurostar, advocates believe there is a renewed opportunity to secure a fair deal for Kent. They argue that it is unacceptable for London to monopolize the benefits of the UK’s only cross-channel link, stressing the importance of restoring these services to stimulate economic growth in the region. Local business owners, like Dev Biswal from Canterbury, have expressed that the closure of the international stations has severely impacted local commerce, draining money from the economy. The campaign continues to gain momentum, with local councils and organizations committed to lobbying for the return of these essential international rail services.