Those near Kent could soon have a faster and more competitive option to travel to Paris, after Italian state-owned rail operator FS Group (Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane) announced an ambitious plan to introduce a new high-speed link between London and Paris by 2029.
The announcement comes five years after its rival Eurostar suspended its services from Ashford & Ebbsfleet, and despite campaigns to reinstate it, the service has not returned since.
The €1 billion project is part of FS Group’s five-year plan to expand its high speed network across Europe.
The company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Spanish mobility firm Evolyn, which could see a new major competitor operate the London to Paris route.
Under plans, the new service would use cutting-edge Frecciarossa-style trainsets, renowned for their comfort, energy efficiency and Italian design.
These trains currently operate on high-speed lines between major European cities such as Milan, Paris and Lyon.
In a statement, FS Group Chief Executive Stefano Antonio Donnarumma described the investment as “a decisive step forward in building a more integrated, competitive and sustainable European rail network.”
He emphasised that competition would not only drive innovation and customer service but also provide a “real alternative to air travel”.
According to the timeline released by FS Group, the company has laid out plans to reopen Ashford International as part of its expansion plans, with preparatory work and consultations expected to begin as early as October 2025, offering easier access for travellers from areas like Bromley and Bexley near Kent.
An “Ashford Innovation Hub” is also being developed, with a planned launch in early 2026, signalling a wider effort to integrate transport, business and regional growth.
The UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) already confirmed access rights to the Temple Mills maintenance depot in East London, paving the way for FS Group to begin technical and regulatory preparations, with the company already in talks with stakeholders across both the UK and France.
While the exact launch date will depend on infrastructure readiness and authorisations, the company has set 2029 as the target year for operations to begin.
Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Council, said: “We welcome Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane’s announcement and are delighted they can see the potential of operating international rail services again from Ashford.
“Over 25 years of significant investment has ensured Ashford International Station remains ready, keeping alive the opportunity to support European travel.
“Delivering on international services by re-opening this gateway to Europe holds the key to unlocking the benefits of that investment, not just in Ashford, but for the whole of Kent, wider South East region and the UK economy.
“Ashford International stands ready. Ready for trade – Ready for jobs – Ready for tourism – Ready to return to the international train map.”
