Dover’s zero-emission bus route hits a major milestone this July! From Friday 14 to Monday 17 July, a brand-new 31.5m bridge will be installed over the A2 at Whitfield, marking a giant leap for Fastrack – Dover’s first purpose-built electric bus corridor.
Weekend Road Closure Sparks Traffic Shake-Up
The A2 between Whitfield roundabout and the Whitfield interchange (A256 junction) will shut from 9pm Friday 14 July until 5am Monday 17 July. During this 60-hour shutdown, five massive 30m steel beams, each weighing 14.5 tonnes, will be lifted into place by a colossal 150-tonne crane.
The beams, proudly made by local firm Nusteel Structures in Lympne, Hythe, are the backbone of the new bridge.
Detours & Travel Tips
A signed diversion via White Cliffs Business Park (Honeywood Road and Honeywood Parkway) will guide drivers around the closure. Drivers heading to or from the Port of Dover are urged to use the A20/M20 routes where possible to avoid delays.
What is Dover Fastrack?
Dover Fastrack promises speedy electric bus links connecting Whitfield’s new housing developments and the future Connaught Barracks site with Dover town centre and Dover Priory Station’s high-speed trains. Key stops include the Dover District Leisure Centre and Dover Castle. Plus, parts of the route are designed for cyclists and pedestrians, making green travel easier than ever.
Local Leaders Praise Project Impact
Cllr Jamie Pout, Dover District Council’s Transport Chief, said: “Installing this bridge is a crucial step in building Dover’s first zero-emission bus route. It shows how we’re teaming up with Homes England and Kent County Council to back new homes with vital infrastructure and greener transport.”
David Brazier, Kent County Council’s Highways and Transport Cabinet Member, added: “This milestone takes us closer to launching Dover Fastrack, which will link new housing, fast trains, and the town’s top attractions more efficiently than ever.”
Nicholas Dobbie, Project Director at Colas, said: “This stage required careful planning and teamwork. We’re excited to see the locally made beams in place as we move forward with building the bridge.”
