Works have begun to safeguard the South Eastern Railway line through Folkestone Warren, with the railway set to remain open to passengers whilst essential improvements are carried out.

The essential works will see a temporary closure of both the Western beach and walkway in order to allow the project to proceed safely.

Works are set to continue through to April 2026 at the earliest

© Network Rail

To reinforce existing sea defences below the railway itself, Boulogne Limestone, a tough, crystalline rock that is hard wearing and well suited for use in coastal protection will be strategically placed along the beach to both shield the coastline from erosion and stabilise the railway and its surrounding cliffs for the next 30 years.

The first of three deliveries of the rock was completed earlier this week, with a total of 18,000 tonnes of limestone set to be used in total.

Work is also being carried out to repair the walkway along the beach, with both it and the Western Beach set to remain closed until improvements are complete in April 2026. Work may be suspended due to severe weather or rough sea conditions during the winter.

All works are set to continue without causing disruption to passengers, with the project having been carefully planned to minimise impact on the local community.

Additionally, a set of fifty sheet piles are set to be installed behind the sea wall to prevent seawater from undermining abutments, the structures that provide support for the railway. Drainage systems are also being repaired, as the current system has been subsided by a metre following cliff movement.

David Davidson, chief operating officer at the South Eastern Railway, said:

Folkestone Warren has experienced ongoing landslip movement for many years. To keep passengers, the public and our colleagues safe, we monitor the area with hundreds of ground sensors that provide real-time data and alerts, allowing us to slow or stop trains if needed.

This major intervention is a proactive step to protect both the railway and the Warren. Trains will continue to run throughout the works, although the beach will remain closed while repairs are underway.

We’re grateful to the local community for their patience and support as we carry out this vital work.

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