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Speed restrictions on trains between Folkestone and Dover after promenade near Folkestone Warren moves

13:30, 18 March 2024

updated: 16:04, 18 March 2024

Train drivers on a coastal route are being told to go slower than usual as a promenade near a track has moved following heavy rainfall.

The uneven surfaces have been spotted at Folkestone Warren, affecting rail services between the town and Dover.

A warning has been issued after uneven surfaces were spotted in Folkestone. Picture: Folkestone and Hythe District Council
A warning has been issued after uneven surfaces were spotted in Folkestone. Picture: Folkestone and Hythe District Council

A picture shared by Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) on Friday shows part of the promenade has lifted up.

The movement is believed to have been caused by downpours which have saturated the ground below the concrete.

Posting on social media, the council said: “Please be cautious of the uneven surfaces at the Folkestone Warren on the promenade/apron.

“Network Rail is regularly monitoring the area for movement and erosion and considering next steps.”

It comes after Folkestone has seen at least eight landslides so far this year following heavy rainfall.

Scene of a landslide on the Road of Remembrance in Folkestone. Picture: Barry Goodwin
Scene of a landslide on the Road of Remembrance in Folkestone. Picture: Barry Goodwin

A spokesperson for Network Rail confirmed a 20mph speed restriction has now been imposed on both train lines along a 1.2mile-stretch running between Abbotscliffe and Martello Tunnels “to ensure the public is safe”.

“We’re aware of uneven surfaces at the Folkestone Warren promenade and have sensors installed to enable us to continually monitor the site,” they said.

“Following the recent heavy rainfall, our monitors detected further movement and our geotechnical experts are currently investigating how best to tackle this issue to prevent further movement.

“The safety of our passengers, colleagues and the public is always our number one priority and as a result.”

The route between Folkestone and Dover was previously shut for nine months after the sea wall at Shakespeare Bay suffered huge storm damage on Christmas Eve 2015.

It added hours on to journey times for some commuters who were forced to take alternative routes to work and repairs cost £40 million.

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