HC Deb 24 May 1993 vol 225 c410W
25. Mrs. Lait

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects work to commence on the building of a new Ashford international railway station together with related works.

Mr. Freeman

I visited Ashford on 17 May and announced that British Rail expects to go out to tender in July for the track and platform works for the international station with a view to works starting in October. The Government have allocated £30 million for such works. I also announced that the principal terms have been agreed for a competition for the private sector to build the station, car parks and other development. The details are currently being finalised and within two weeks British Rail will be seeking initial expressions of interest.