Kent is major step closer to International Rail Services
It follows the rail regulator's decision today to grant Virgin Trains access to Eurostar's International Depot
Last updated 30th Oct 2025
Kent is a major step closer to seeing international rail services return to Ashford and Ebbsfleet, following the Office of Rail and Road’s (ORR) decision today to grant Virgin Trains access to Temple Mills International Depot.
There's been no competition on the rail route for 30 years, with Eurostar withdrawing their services from Ashford and Ebbsfleet in 2020.
The decisions follows last month’s International Rail event hosted by Kent County Council, where rail operators, councils, MPs, businesses and residents came together.
The ORR’s decision now has the potential to provide a direct route to Europe for Kent’s residents and businesses, without having to travel out of the county to board a train that then passes back through Kent.
More than 82,000 people backed a campaign to bring international rail services back to Kent, organised by local campaign group Bring Back Euro Trains.
KCC Leader Linden Kemkaran said: “The ORR has made the right decision which I wholeheartedly welcome. Their decision paves the way for competition – competition that has made clear its ambition to serve Kent again.
"It’s a clear signal that Kent matters and that our international stations have a vital role to play in the future of cross-Channel rail.
“Kent’s residents and businesses can be assured that we will keep pushing to make sure Kent is front and centre in the next phase.
Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, says he's "delighted" by the news:
“This move could not only enable potential new operators who have already expressed an interest in introducing international rail services, but it also creates the right conditions for the return of direct international trains to Kent, including Ashford and Ebbsfleet.
“Increased competition will mean more choice for passengers, lower fares, and new destinations."
But Chief Executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Tudor Price tells Greatest Hits and Hits Radio "the show is not over".
"What this means now is we have to really start working on Government to really put the pressure on and provide that incentive to Eurostar and Virgin to stop their trains here in Ashford."
Leader of Dartford Borough Council Jeremy Kite said: “Although we’re disappointed that the report doesn’t offer direct support to bringing our two international stations back into operation, we have to be pleased that it does open the way for competition on the service.
“Ebbsfleet is ready and waiting to welcome customers back for international travel.
Virgin Trains has confirmed its commitment to Kent, stating in a letter to KCCs leader that they recognise: “the significant public interest in the reintroduction of international services at Ebbsfleet and Ashford in Kent.
"If these stations are reopened, Virgin will of course stop in Kent. We look forward to talking further with you as we explore together how to reopen the stations as it will require commitment and resources from all parties and operators."
The Leaders of KCC, Ashford Borough Council and Dartford Borough Council are now calling on government to establish the working group Kent has long been asking for to resolve any remaining barriers and ensure Kent’s international stations are open, operational and ready to deliver for the county once again.