Eurostar has revealed it will be reducing its timetable next year and will not be reopening Ashford International or Ebbsfleet International stations before 2022.
The move comes following an unprecedented fall in demand, with bookings down by 90% compared to last year.
A statement says: “Covid-19 has had a severe impact on the travel industry and on our business and we continue to operate in very challenging conditions. We have experienced an unprecedented fall in demand, with bookings down by 90% compared to last year.
“The environment remains very unpredictable and has been exacerbated by quarantine restrictions which are now across all of our markets.
“Given the uncertain outlook, it is crucial that we adapt and take action to reduce our costs so that we protect our business for the future.
“In 2021, therefore, we will reduce our timetable, focusing only on our core routes and destinations where we see the highest demand.
“As a result, we have had to make the very difficult decision not to reopen Ashford International or Ebbsfleet International stations before 2022.
“We have not taken this decision lightly and have given this considerable thought but given the severity of the situation we have to take action.”
Last month Eurostar confirmed the start of new direct connection between Amsterdam and London from October 26th.
Visit www.eurostar.com for more details.
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