Road of Remembrance in Folkestone could remain closed for rest of year while landslide repairs continue

A road linking a town centre and seafront could be closed for the rest of the year following two landslides.

The Road of Remembrance in Folkestone has been cordoned off since January, when the first of two slips hit the stretch.

The Road of Remembrance could remain closed until the end of the year

A few weeks later more trees and debris fell onto the road.

Repair works have been carried out and it was thought the road would reopen in the summer.

But now, bosses at Kent County Council confirmed the closure has been extended.

The Temporary Traffic Regulation Order now covers until the end of 2024, and will allow for ground investigations, surveys and design work to be carried out, as well as subsequent remedial works to stabilise the embankment.

The council says the road will only re-open once it is safe to do so.

Road of Remembrance suffered its first landslide in January. Picture: Joe Harbert

KCC’s cabinet member for highways and transport, Neil Baker, said: “A complex situation like this one ultimately leads to a complex solution.

“This is an essential road closure to ensure the future of the Road of Remembrance is successful and safe.

“I know this will be very disappointing news to the residents of Folkestone, particularly how it affects certain events in the town.

“We are working closely with Folkestone and Hythe District Council and event organisers to support where we can so the events run smoothly.”

The landslides at the Road of Remembrance have not been the only ones to take place in Folkestone, with eight taking place this year from the Warren to Sandgate.

Last week, a sinkhole also appeared in Sandgate high street.