More than 2.2m freight vehicles travel through the Port of Dover every year reinforcing its status as Europe’s busiest ferry terminal, according to a new report.

An economic impact survey by independent consultancy Oxera estimated £89bn of goods are transported through the town annually.

It also indicates 98% of freight traffic either originates in or is destined for the EU.

The findings suggest the port brings a net benefit of £2.3bn to its customers.

Port of Dover chief executive Tim Waggott said: “This report shows the real, and too often unseen, value of the port and the work of the team on behalf of UK plc, and the customers it serves.

“The scale and value of goods handled by the people working at the port is staggering and demonstrates its importance to the nation and the need for continued and major investment.

“Being the closest UK port to mainland Europe means a reduced crossing time. Coupled with excellent service and capacity it adds up to a remarkable saving to hauliers who choose to travel through Dover.”

Mr Waggott says the findings add weight to the case for the Harbour Board’s proposals to revive the Western Docks, creating 600 jobs and generating £25m of gross value added for the district’s economy.

Oxera managing consultant Andrew Meaney said: “Following a robust economic analysis, it is plain to see the Port of Dover is a vital cog in the UK economy and European logistics chain.

“It already adds significant value and, given the right powers, can add so much more. Without it, the UK would be less competitive and the cost to industry would be substantial.”