Sea defence upgrades protect iconic Folkestone rail route

Major coastal defence works have commenced at Folkestone Warren to safeguard the strategically important South Eastern Railway line that runs along the base of the chalk cliffs. The scheme, led by Network Rail in coordination with South Eastern Railway, responds to a long history of coastal erosion and landslip activity that has periodically threatened the stability of the route. Despite the scale of intervention, the railway will remain fully operational throughout the construction period.

The works involve the placement of 18,000 tonnes of Boulogne limestone rock armour along approximately 300 metres of the Western Beach shoreline. This hard, crystalline limestone has been selected for its durability and resistance to wave action, forming a protective toe in front of the existing sea wall. In parallel, around 50 sheet piles will be installed behind the wall to prevent seawater ingress beneath railway abutments. Drainage systems are also being repaired after subsiding by nearly one metre due to progressive cliff movement, addressing groundwater pressures that contribute to instability.

Construction is scheduled to run through to April 2026, subject to weather and sea conditions. The Western Beach and beachside walkway will remain closed during this period, with diversion routes in place. Continuous monitoring using ground sensors and drone surveys will remain active, allowing real-time assessment of slope movement and enabling operational controls on train movements if required. The project is designed to provide resilience for at least the next 30 years.