The route pasing through Ebbsfleet is due to open in 2007

The station at Ebbsfleet will be on the route from St Pancras to the Channel Tunnel when the route opens in 2007.

Eurostar, which will run trains on the route, has announced plans to call the station Dartford International because Ebbsfleet is not well-enough known.

But local councils have said they are concerned at the name change as the station is five miles from Dartford.

Consulted passengers

Ebbsfleet lies on the second phase of the high-speed rail link, due for completion in 2007, with new 140mph trains to run on it from 2009.

Once the route opens, Kent commuters will be able to use it for fast journeys into London.

Eurostar said it had settled on the name Dartford International after consultation with current and potential passengers and people in the area.

It has already begun referring to the station - not yet built - by the name.

Gravesham Borough Council and Dartford Borough Council have both said Ebbsfleet is their preferred name.

The final decision is due to be made by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Transport Secretary.