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Drivers advised to plan routes ahead of expected congestion at Port of Dover

Increased traffic on Dover’s main entry roads is expected tomorrow prompting a renewed warning to motorists to plan their journeys.

It follows what has been dubbed Black Sunday two weeks ago, when intensified security checks by the French led to 14 hours of gridlock on the A20 and A2.

A statement from Highways England said: “It is expected that the M20/A20 and M2/A2 approaches could be busy for tourist, freight and local traffic. With the summer holidays in full swing, it is expected that cross-Channel gateways will be busy.”

The grind of traffic for holidaymakers Black Saturday, July 23, 2016.
The grind of traffic for holidaymakers Black Saturday, July 23, 2016.

Highways England is working with Kent Police, Kent County Council and the Port of Dover to help ensure that everything possible is done to help road users.

Drivers are advised to:

  • be prepared for any delays on their journeys and allow plenty of time to reach their destination
  • check travel conditions before setting out and, where it is safe to do so, during journeys
  • ensure they and their cars are ready for the journey – especially having plenty of fuel in their vehicle, and food, water and things to do for the people in it
  • if there is congestion on the A20, local traffic is advised to consider other routes such as the B2011, A256 or A258, which may not be suitable for HGVs
  • Port of Dover traffic is advised to use the M20/A20 to access the port and use the A2 when leaving the Port
  • local traffic is advised to consider other routes such as the B2011, A256 or A258, which may not be suitable for HGVs
Traffic chaos in Dover
Traffic chaos in Dover

Drivers heading for the Channel Tunnel are advised to turn up on time for their booked departure. Highways England provides live traffic information via its website, local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile apps. Local Twitter services are also available at @HighwaysSEAST.

Travel advice for drivers heading to the Port of Dover is also available on Twitter via @PoD_travelnews or from Kent County Council via @KentHighways.

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