Dover traffic delays: motorists warned that this week's chaos could be the worst yet

Misery: Travellers heading towards Dover faced chaos sparked by holiday traffic and increased security checks
PA
Hannah Al-Othman3 August 2016

Motorists travelling to and from Dover this weekend have been warned to prepare for the worst delays yet as so-called "Black Saturday" looms.

French highway authorities have warned that heavy congestion is set to hit main routes throughout the country on Saturday, when there is a crossover between holidaymakers heading home and those just beginning their breaks.

Kent Police have said that disruption that motorist have faced in recent weeks is down to a "vast volume of holiday traffic" coupled with delays caused by heightened security on the French side of the border in the wake of terror attacks.

Holidaymakers have reported queueing at the Kent port for up to 20 hours, while police officers have warned motorists to carry extra food and water as they prepare for miles of tailbacks.

Experts have said that congestion at the border is due to ease up over August, but weekends and still expected to be problematic.

Greg Hallsworth, UK traffic analyst at INRIX, said: “This weekend could see the worst congestion yet around Dover and on the other side of the Channel.

"Thousands of holidaymakers are faced with the prospect of hours of tailbacks delaying the start of their summer break, partly caused by some tourists opting to delay their journey to avoid the major congestion that plagued Dover over the past two weekends.

"On a more positive note, traffic is likely to ease up going further into August, particularly during the week.

"Weekends, however, will continue to see major congestion as holidaymakers begin their journeys.

"For those heading to Dover this weekend, drivers of light vehicles could try alternative routes such as the A256, joining from Whitefield on the A2 or Alkham Valley Road on the A20, or alternatively using the Old Folkestone Road across from Capel-le-Ferne.

"During busier periods, HGV drivers should follow arrangements for the Dover TAP, which are clearly signposted. Holidaymakers should keep up to date with local traffic news and listen to the recommendations of local authorities and ensure they keep plenty of water with them.”

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