Save our stops, say rural commuters
Opposition is mounting against plans to cut rail services to some Weald stations.
The government is asking people for their views on how the South East train network should run in the future.
There are no firm proposals but one suggestion from the Department for Transport is to introduce an hourly fast service by reducing stops at less wellused stations.
The DfT’s consultation paper acknowledges the idea could “inconvenience passengers” and, not surprisingly, it has prompted anger among commuters, who are being supported by the general election hopefuls.
Helen Whately, Tory candidate for Faversham and Mid Kent, has written to the rail minister saying services along the Ashford to Tonbridge line should not be cut.
She said: “These are much valued, well-used stations. I know people who drive miles to catch trains from Headcorn, for instance. And population growth in and around these villages is likely to add to the number of passengers.”
Lib Dem candidate for Maidstone and the Weald, Emily Fermor, said: “These cuts to our rural services cannot go ahead.
“Many people and businesses rely on these services for their livelihoods.
“With more houses being built in Staplehurst and Marden, there will be more of a need for a good rail service. It should be increased, not reduced.
“Having been brought up in these villages, I know how beautiful they are, and it is important for families, and for the elderly and disabled, and those who rely on transport for work, that they continue to be vibrant communities with good and reliable transport links.”
Helen Grant, Conservative candidate for Maidstone and the Weald, is also fighting the cuts.
She said: “I absolutely share the deep concerns among local people about a seemingly ambiguous proposal that could result in a reduction of the number of trains on the Staplehurst and Marden line. I firmly believe this is a time where critical commuter services from our rural villages need to be strengthened.
“Marden and Staplehurst require a train service at least once every half an hour in order to accommodate the demand.
“I would therefore strongly encourage anyone with an interest in train services in the South East to contribute to the consultation.”
Responses must be made by Tuesday, May 23. Visit tinyurl. com/railconsultation