COUNCIL chiefs have warned the Strategic Rail Authority of the huge problems that will result if it decides to cut train services.

The overseer of the county's rail network, which is itself being axed next year, is due to decide on controversial new timetables plans before Christmas.

Kent County Council's cabinet member for regeneration, Cllr Alex King (Con), has met with SRA chairman David Quarmby.

He said: "The SRA has got to get it right. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get the rail services we desperately need in this county and which will be able to cope with future needs.

"The proposed Channel Tunnel Rail Link domestic services must serve Dover, Thanet, Manston Airport and Sittingbourne.

“Existing services to London Victoria, Charing Cross and Cannon Street - in particular from mid, north and west Kent - have got to be maintained as well as a good service to the rural and smaller stations.

"We are very concerned that if services from stations in Maidstone and the Medway Towns are cut, commuters are going to drive to Ebbsfleet.

"This would cause huge problems on Kent's stressed road network. Domesticated services on the CTRL must come online as soon as possible."