As Brits head to Europe for a holiday this summer, people leaving the UK via the Port of Dover have been facing huge delays. With crowds headed for a break, tourists face increased journey times due to the sheer amount of people travelling at the same time.
This is also the case for those travelling via the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle at Folkestone. Travellers are warned of a 90-minute delay at Dover due to processing time at the French border which is another element of the congestion.
To ease congestion, the port has suggested drivers use the A2 and A20 routes to help break up the traffic.
Services between Folkestone and Calais are delayed by up to an hour and a half – but passengers are advised to check in as normal, reports BBC.
The end of July and beginning of August are some of the most popular times for Brits to go abroad, with the school holidays now in full swing.
Just last weekend a staggering 3 million drivers hit the road, amid the dreaded “Saturday Scramble”, reports The Sun.
Meanwhile queues became so big on Thursday last week drivers exited their cars and waited by the side of the road.
Drivers have been cautioned to leave after 7pm on Sunday to avoid the traffic as much as possible, reports LBC.
Doug Bannister, chief executive at the Port of Doverd, said earlier this week his organisation has been “preparing for a busy summer” and have brought in measures to “minimise disruption”.
He said: “We know how vital it is to keep things moving, not just for holidaymakers but for our local community too.
“That’s why we’ve boosted staff levels, strengthened traffic management, added welfare facilities and introduced AI-powered forecasting – all to minimise disruption and ensure both residents and travellers have the best possible experience during this busy season.”
If you are planning on travelling, make sure to check your route and do your research prior to making your trip.
