Welcome for more Channel Freight to go on Trains

Investment enabling thousands of tonnes of freight heading across the Channel to be carried by rail again has been welcomed by Folkestone & Hythe District Council.

Councillors have been working with Network Rail for the past 18 months supporting its plan to upgrade the freight link between Folkestone and London.

The Department of Transport announced today (25 February 2026) that a government-backed deal will see Network Rail and its property development company create an international logistics hub at Barking in east London.

This will allow the return of regular intermodal freight trains carrying cargo in containers through the Channel Tunnel and potentially strengthen and open up new trade links with Europe. 

F&HDC councillors brought together MPs, councillors and key representatives from Network Rail after listening to residents’ concerns about the knock-on effect in their communities whenever Operation Brock or Dover TAP are implemented on the M20/A20.

As well as reducing congestion and easing the blockages caused by Operation Brock, the link will help to reduce carbon emissions and improve our links with mainland Europe.

Council Leader, Jim Martin, asked the Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, about the freight link at a meeting late last year to promote the return of international passenger services from Ashford.

Cllr Martin, who had encouraged other Kent council leaders to write to the minister, said he is delighted with the announcement which could lead to the removal of 140,000 lorry journeys from the M20 every year.

Currently only a small proportion of rail freight passes through the Channel Tunnel, and this is limited to bulk, single customer orders.