Summer getaway hell as 1,000s of drivers stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic at Dover with delays of up to 90 minutes
GRIDLOCKED Summer getaway hell as 1,000s of drivers stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic at Dover with delays of up to 90 minutes
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THOUSANDS of drivers are stuck in huge queues at the Port of Dover, as Brits head off on their summer getaways.
Holidaymakers have been warned of 90 minute delays leading up to border checks this morning.
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It is one of the busiest times of year to travel
Credit: Stuart Brock
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Motorists have been told to expect queues of 90 minutes
Credit: Stuart Brock
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The Port of Dover is a popular travel route for Brits heading to France and, then, onto Europe
Credit: Stuart Brock
A Port of Dover spokesperson warned: "Processing time in the Buffer Zone is approximately 90 minutes.
"There are no queues at the check-in plaza, but the port approach roads are still very busy and congested.
"TAP procedures are in place for freight. We wish everyone a safe journey!"
The end of July and beginning of August are some of the most popular times for Brits to go abroad.
However, the huge surge in journeys to airports and staycation destinations means more people will be on the roads than ever.
The Port of Dover is a popular travel route for Brits heading to France and, then, onto Europe.
Just last weekend a staggering 3 million drivers hit the road, amid the dreaded 'Saturday Scramble'.
Meanwhile queues became so big on Thursday last week drivers exited their cars and waited by the side of the road - despite warnings that this was unsafe.
Doug Bannister, chief executive at the Port of Dover, has previously said that the organisation has been 'preparing for a busy summer'.
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.'
This year's summer getaway is expected to see the biggest number of midweek car trips made since records began.
Experts at the RAC estimated drivers planning 13.9million journeys between Monday July 21 and Thursday 24 July.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender said:'Normally the weekend bears the brunt of getaway traffic but this year we're expecting 'midweek mayhem'.
'We typically see a peak on 'Frantic Friday' when holidaymakers share the roads with commuters heading home, but our figures indicate these trips will now be spread across several days with millions more weekday journeys planned.
"To avoid the worst of the traffic, travel outside peak times and steer well clear of morning and evening rush hours.
'If a getaway journey involves hours in the car, it's essential to be well rested and fresh for the trip.
"If possible, share the driving with another passenger to ensure concentration levels stay high, while those travelling with children should pack plenty of entertainment to keep them occupied and minimise questions of 'are we there yet?'. Water, snacks and phone chargers are essential!
'Before setting off, drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down, like checking oil and coolant levels as well as the condition and tread on all tyres.
"There's also still time to book an RAC Mobile Mechanic who can carry out a wide range of repairs at home or work, as well conducting a full or interim service.'
The busy port has undergone a huge renovation in recent months, which reportedly cost a £6billion.
Previously only able to accommodate ships with a maximum length of 320m, it can now allow boats of up to 350m to moor at Dover.
A statement from the Port of Dover following the upgrade said that it can now welcome 'some of the largest cruise ships in the world'.
They will have room for bigger ships from the likes of Disney, MSC, Norwegian and Princess.
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