UK Entrance Canopy

Folkestone 
EXPLORE

Contract

Procurement

JCT Construction Management

Traditional

Value

Services

£50 million

Quantity Surveying

Sector

Client

Commercial

Eurotunnel

Bringing New Beginnings to the Eurotunnel

The Channel Tunnel, better known as the Eurotunnel, is a 31-mile feat of engineering that seamlessly links England and France beneath the English Channel. First proposed in 1802, this ambitious vision took nearly 200 years to materialise. After decades of discussion and detailed feasibility studies throughout the 20th century, construction finally began in 1988. Over 13,000 workers from both nations contributed to its completion in 1993, with Eurostar services launching the following year in November 1994. Entirely privately funded by a consortium of British and French banks and corporations, the project stands as one of the most remarkable privately financed infrastructure achievements in history.  

Now, a new chapter begins. Kent Construction Consultants is proud to be leading a significant redevelopment of the Eurotunnel site, in collaboration with the multi award-winning Hollaway Studios. Together, we’re shaping the next evolution of this iconic gateway, bringing new life, vision, and opportunity to one of Europe’s most symbolic transport corridors. 

Reimagining the Canopy:
A Sustainable Forward-Looking Gateway

The existing entrance canopy at the Folkestone terminal has served its purpose for over 30 years but has undergone numerous piecemeal changes in response to shifting operational demands. These ad hoc adaptations have left the structure fragmented and outdated. Now at the end of its serviceable life, the canopy requires extensive, and costly maintenance. With its primary structure showing signs of failure in multiple areas, effective repairs would cause major disruption and still fall short of long-term value. In fact, replacing the canopy is not only more cost-effective but also offers a transformative opportunity.

A Greener Gateway: Redefining The Le Shuttle Arrival Experience

As the main point of departure and arrival between the UK and France, the entrance canopy sets the tone for the entire Le Shuttle experience. The proposed design introduces a flat roof finished with a living green surface, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability and blending the structure into its natural environment. This green roof will not only enhance visual appeal but also deliver environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and natural insulation. Supporting the canopy is a series of elegantly curved columns that define a contemporary architectural character while creating an open, adaptable space for vehicles of all sizes to pass through efficiently. 

In addition to its environmental focus, the roof will also house a photovoltaic (PV) array, reducing reliance on imported electricity and further boosting the project’s green credentials. The canopy embodies a modern aesthetic while prioritising practicality, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, fully aligned with the project's goals of creating a functional, welcoming, and future-ready terminal gateway. 

Further enhancing the terminal’s evolution, the recent integration of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in November 2024 marks a major step forward in streamlining the border crossing experience. Biometric data kiosks, featuring fingerprint and facial recognition, are now positioned in each bay, with two enrolment points per vehicle lane. The system has been engineered to handle up to 2,000 passengers or 700 vehicles per hour, ensuring smooth, high-volume processing. By redesigning the entire arrival process, EES reinforces the project’s broader vision: delivering a seamless, efficient, and secure journey from start to finish.

Kent Based Cost Data and Local Specialist Engagement  

Cost planning and quantity surveying are fundamental to the success of complex infrastructure projects, providing financial clarity, strategic insight, and cost control from inception to completion. At Kent Construction Consultants, we apply RICS best practices, including the New Rules of Measurement (NRM), to deliver structured, data-led cost advice tailored to the specific demands of each project. In the redevelopment of the Eurotunnel entrance canopy, our quantity surveyors have played a pivotal role, preparing accurate cost estimates, managing procurement through strategic tendering, and ensuring budget alignment at every stage. By combining rigorous cost planning with expert commercial management, we’ve helped guide design decisions, mitigate risk, and maximise value for our client. 

Similar Projects

accreditations

Guided by integrity, certified by RICS

Our RICS chartered status ensures we uphold the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and excellence - giving you complete confidence in our expertise.