The only boats left in the harbour are fishing vessels

Sea Containers say they have already had interest from two potential buyers.

But it has not revealed whether either has plans to bring back passenger ferry services.

Ferry companies stopped using the Kent port after the downfall of duty free goods led to a drop in passenger numbers.

In the port's heyday a million people and 90,000 cars passed through it each year.

Sale news welcomed

But the last crossings from Folkestone to Boulogne ended when Hoverspeed pulled out in September 2000.

Various groups have campaigned since then for passenger services from Folkestone to resume but the only boats found in the harbour now are fishing vessels.

The news the harbour has been put up for sale has been welcomed by a group campaigning to boost business in the town.

Philip Carter of Go Folkestone said: "We're very very pleased and relieved it's up for sale and at long last the hand of Sea Containers is being lifted from this harbour.

The last passenger crossings to Boulogne were in September 2000

"We know that has been the major stumbling block and we're very pleased that now it can be developed.

"We definitely want to see it stay as a port."

But Folkestone's town centre manager Rob Woods was more cautious.

He said: "On the balance of probabilities it may be difficult to find an investor to run a ferry service, given the competition.

"Eurotunnel is just four miles away and Dover is six miles away."

Sea Containers told the BBC two potential buyers had already come forward but it would not comment on the chances of new owners using the area as a port.

Other ideas suggested for the site have included housing, a marina or a casino.