powered trains, which would not require electrification on the Marshlink line. The two level crossings with the A259 have been criticised as being inadequate, and a decision would be required with the Highways Agency, who manage the road, as to what work is required to make the upgrades go ahead. The Marshlink Action Group is a volunteer group set up in 2003 in the interests of passengers using the line. The group are concerned about the line's future, particularly the use of Class 171 DMUs. They have reported a high proportion of children and the elderly use the line compared to others in the south east, and that trains are now at capacity but there is no additional stock because of its state as an isolated non-electric line. In 2016, Rudd chaired a working group to look at short and long-term plans for upgrading the Marshlink line, including the potential accommodation of Class 395 rolling stock. A report from Network Rail suggested that third rail electrification would cost around £100–250 million, and overhead electrification would cost between £250 and £500 million. In May 2018, the Department of Transport allocated £200,000 for further electrification design, with the possibility of completion in 2022 when the existing track life-expires. This could provide the possibility of travelling from Ashford to Hastings in 20 minutes. In October, a proposal was chaired to build an additional platform at Ashford to support direct St Pancras – Rye services. From 2001, there were proposals to build an additional station at , between Ashford International and Ham Street, these were strengthed by the development of the new Finberry estate to the southeast of Ashford However in December 2018, Ashford Borough Council concluded it was not economically viable or practical to build the station. References Notes Citations Sources ) External links Route information Railfuture article on the Marshlink line Hastings to Ashford International – DEMU cab ride – Hastings Diesels Ltd Marshlink trains Twitter feed Rail transport in Kent Rail transport in East Sussex Transport in Hastings Transport in the Borough of Ashford Railway lines in South East England Railway lines opened in 1851 Standard gauge railways in England 1851 establishments in England