Long lines are forming at the Port of Dover following a “critical incident” on Friday, while fuel price protests threaten to disrupt travel for thousands more.
The port’s CEO blamed the long lines on “woefully inadequate” staffing at French border control.
However, French police later stated that the delays in traffic from Dover were caused by a “unexpected technical incident” under the Channel Tunnel.
P&O Ferries advised passengers to allow “at least six hours” to clear all security checks, while some lorry drivers described the disruption as “the worst” they had ever experienced at the port.
It comes after a fuel price protest on the M5, with a slow moving convoy of vehicles clearing the motorway within hours, causing only minor traffic disruption.
Drivers should be “prepared for delays long before they reach the terminal” at the Port of Dover, according to the AA.
They issued a travel warning to drivers in the south-east of England, advising them to ensure they have enough fuel in their tanks, as well as plenty of water and snacks.
With extremely long queues heading towards Dover and Folkestone, it is incredibly important that drivers are prepared for delays long before they reach the terminal,” said Jack Cousens, AA head of roads policy.
“Having enough fuel in the tank, as well as plenty of water and snacks, will be critical in attempting to avoid traffic jams.” Drivers should also use the AA app to track congestion and stay in touch with their travel company to stay up to date on any advice issued.”
It comes after port officials warned of at least six-hour delays earlier on Friday.
In the meantime, the EuroShuttle at Folkstone is reporting three-hour delays.
According to AA Route Planner scans at around midday on Friday, traffic disruption at other Channel ports appears to be minimal.
At 3.30 a.m., AA Route Planner began receiving reports of severe delays and stated that it is continuing to monitor ports across the UK.
According to the most recent AA Route Planner data, the Portsmouth and Newhaven ferry ports are operating reasonably well.
