PLANS by Eurostar to slash the number of trains stopping at Ashford International station are under fresh fire from regeneration chiefs.

After widespread criticism from political chiefs in Kent, Eurostar’s decision has now been slammed by leading councillors in East Sussex and Hastings.

East Sussex County Council and Hastings Borough Council say they are horrified at the news and fear the service cuts will undermine their efforts to boost jobs and tourism in the area.

They also say it raises serious questions about Ashford International’s long-term future.

In a joint statement, the two authorities said: "Ashford International has played a key role in our long-term plans to boost the county’s economy and could have a serious impact on regeneration plans for the area.

"The news also undermines the good progress made in upgrading and improving the line between Hastings and Ashford."

The statement added: "It makes total sense for the South East to become a transport hub into Europe. This decision goes against the South East plan and we will be writing to MPs and ministers to raise our concerns."

Meanwhile, a delegation of MPs and council leaders from Kent is due to meet with Eurostar chiefs to raise their worries over the plans in the next few weeks.

Eurostar is to cut daily services to and from Ashford from 11 to four when Ebbsfleet International station in north Kent opens next year, leaving just three services from Ashford and no direct service to Brussels.