Decision details

Proposed decision

To progress the Road of Remembrance embankment stabilisation works scheme through to delivery

Reason for the decision

On 27 January 2024, a major landslip occurred from a cliff north of the Road of Remembrance, blocking the road with a significant volume of fallen trees and soil. The road remains closed and there is a risk of further significant collapses with the potential to damage the road itself.  In order to stabilise the cliff to protect this historic road and be able to safety re-open it for public use, it is necessary to fund and carry out significant engineering works to the cliff.

Background

After the road was closed and works carried out to remove trees and soil and stabilise the cliff as far as that was possible, various geological, technical and legal investigations have taken place to understand the issues and in particular to identify risks to the road itself. That has led to an understanding of the risks of further collapse and the potential risks to properties at the top of the cliff and to anyone who chooses to ignore the formal road closure below. That has in turn led to an options appraisal and the formulation of an engineering solution to stabilise the cliff, protect the public highway and safely re-open the road for public use.

Options (other options considered but discarded)

We have looked at other options including ‘do nothing’ and lesser designs but these have all been ruled out largely because of safety reasons.

How the proposed decision supports the Council’s Strategic Statement

Kent’s highways are a key enabler of all services and all economic activity that takes place in Kent, and therefore contribute significantly to all of the Council’s strategic aims. The proposed works to stabilise the cliff, protect the Road of Remembrance and safety re-open it, given the historic and local importance of this road, will contribute significantly to local regeneration and economic growth.

As Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport I agree to:

(a)       Give approval to progress the construction of the embankment stabilisation and associated works utilising KCC capital funding as identified in the 26/27 H&T capital budget.

(b)       Accept a contribution from Folkestone and Hythe District Council to contribute towards funding the works.

(c)        Deliver the works via the Road Asset Renewal Contract that has provision and financial capacity to accommodate these works.

(d)       Approval for any other further decisions required to allow the scheme to proceed through to construction to be taken by the Corporate Director of Growth, Environment & Transport under the Officer Scheme of Delegations following prior consultation with the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport.