Dover Port Open and Traffic Plans in Place Amid Delay Fears
Simon Jones, KRF Strategic Planning Lead, has reassured the public that well-oiled multi-agency plans are ready to tackle any traffic chaos. The focus? Protecting local residents and keeping Kent’s roads moving smoothly.
Port of Dover: Still Open, Traffic Flowing
Earlier on Thursday, the Port of Dover warned of possible delays due to reduced sailings. But as of 5pm, the port remains 1, traffic is flowing well, and ferry operators DFDS and Irish Ferries are running as normal.
The traffic control scheme TAP20 is currently managing the flow of HGVs along the A20 into the port, keeping things under control.
Kent Council on High Alert
Simon Jones, Kent County Council (KCC) Corporate Director for Growth, Environment and Transport, said:
“Kent Resilience Forum partners, including the Department for Transport, Kent Police, and National Highways, are closely monitoring the situation.
“We’re ready to 1 together to safeguard communities and keep Kent’s roads moving as best as possible.
“We advise anyone driving through or in Kent to be prepared for delays. If you’re travelling by ferry from Dover to the Continent in the next five days, please contact your operator before setting off.”
Driver Safety Tips to Beat the Delays
To dodge disruption headaches, drivers are urged to:
- CHECK their route before travelling
- ALLOW extra journey time
- INSPECT their vehicle — tyres, lights, fuel, oil, and water are key to avoiding breakdowns
- PACK essentials like food, water, medicines, and supplies if travelling with children
- ENSURE passports have at least six months validity to avoid being turned away at ports
For the latest Kent traffic updates and travel alerts, follow hashtags #kenttravel, #checkbeforeyoutravel, and #EverySingleJourney. Stay tuned to official sources to avoid being caught out.
