The scheme’s simple aim is to restore passenger services between Tunbridge Wells and Lewes, upgrade the existing line from Uckfield to Hurst Green and eventually electrify it. This would create a fast new Wealden Line, linking Kent and East Sussex and provide two additional routes between London and the South Coast; one via Oxted and the other via Tonbridge.

Both Tunbridge Wells and Brighton suffer from worsening road congestion. At Tunbridge Wells, this is aggravated by ex-Uckfield line commuters driving over to get a better train service. A restored rail service would provide an attractive alternative to the private car, providing a 'carrot' to complement the 'stick' of increasingly draconian parking restrictions.

Wealden District Council, South East England Development Agency, various MPs. The support of East Sussex County Council is questioned by many.

Track lifted, trackbed largely intact. Bridges needed to replace level crossings.

Study completed by Network Rail on behalf of Central Rail Corridor Board. This failed to establish any cost-benefit. However, the study was regarded by many as flawed and a new one is now being prepared by Jacobs.