The boss of the Port of Dover has warned of an “exceptionally busy” summer due to Olympics travel demand and preparation work for new EU border checks.
Chief executive Doug Bannister predicted a 30% increase in passenger numbers due to the Games in Paris which start on July 26.
Current modelling indicates that processing times inside the port will be up to two hours during the peak hours of 6am to 1pm on Fridays to Sundays every weekend of the summer holidays, due to the “extreme popularity” of these days.
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The number of border control posts for tourist traffic has increased from seven to 11 in addition to two for freight and five for coaches.
Measures have been put in place by the port involving UK and French border authorities, ferry companies and the Kent & Medway Resilience Forum “to support the collective goal for an efficient summer operation as possible”.
Bannister said: “As well as having even more tourist traffic coming our way this year, we have the added challenge of having to implement our infrastructure works required by France and the EU to support the EU’s new Entry/Exit system due to go live in October.
“On arrival at the port this summer, our customers will see the contractors we have on-site, working around an already busy 24/7 operation to construct these facilities.
“The effect of these works that are required to house the process means that our Buffer Zone, where traffic waits for French border clearance, will have a reduced capacity.
“In addition to these vital works, we must also factor in an anticipated increase in traveller numbers of 30%, who will be making their way to Paris for the Olympic Games, starting later this month.
“We know that these external factors will have an impact on customer’s journeys to and through the port, but we will continue to work hard with our partners to prioritise their experience.”
He added: “We have added in as much capacity as we can to compensate, but we have a duty of care to be responsible.
“On that basis, we are advising those who will be using the Port of Dover this summer that it will be exceptionally busy.
“Therefore, it is vital that they do not arrive any earlier than the two hours stated – just as if you were planning on flying from a UK airport.
“However, in the case of any issues with the sailing they are booked on, they will simply be placed on the next available sailing at no extra cost as sailings will be continuous throughout the day.
“We value all of the customers who choose to use the Port of Dover. We anticipate some busy times ahead this summer and are undoubtedly appreciative of their patience and support whilst we get them on the way to their holiday.”
Travellers are advised to have passports open and ready before border controls “to ensure the quickest possible transit and reduce the waiting time for other vehicles”.