Railway remains open as sea defences strengthened along Folkestone coastline

South Eastern Railway has started a major project to protect the iconic line through Folkestone Warren, with work designed to strengthen sea defences and safeguard the railway for decades. The line itself will remain open to passengers throughout the programme.

Essential work began on Monday 5 January 2025, with the Western beach and walkway closed to allow safe progress. The first delivery of Boulogne Limestone, a durable crystalline rock suited for coastal protection, was brought to the beach and will be strategically placed to shield the coastline from erosion and stabilise both the railway and surrounding cliffs. In total, 18,000 tonnes of limestone will be installed over approximately 300 metres of shoreline, with two further deliveries scheduled depending on weather conditions.

The walkway along the beach is also being repaired and, like the Western beach, is expected to remain closed until April 2026. Work may be paused during severe weather or rough seas, but all activity is taking place away from the tracks to avoid disruption to train services.

In addition to the coastal rocks, around fifty sheet piles will be installed behind the sea wall to prevent seawater from undermining the railway’s supporting structures. Drainage systems are also being repaired after subsidence of up to a metre caused by cliff movement.

David Davidson, chief operating officer at 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.”

Image: Network Rail