Work starts on the £40m Dover border scheme

The BBC reported on 6 November 2026 that a major redevelopment is under way at the Port of Dover. The £40m Dover Border Access Improvement Scheme will reconfigure border control facilities within the Eastern Docks, creating capacity for up to 500 additional lorries and expanding space for border processing booths. BBC South East was given access to the port as construction starts.

Port chief executive Doug Bannister said the improvements could mean two traffic management measures are needed far less often during periods of disruption and peak demand. Dover TAP can see lorries queueing close to homes in Aycliffe, and Operation Brock on the M20 has caused significant disruption. According to Kent County Council, the improvements are expected to reduce the frequency and duration of Operation Brock and Dover TAP by up to 80% during normal operations, and to help keep traffic within the port, reducing the impact on the A20, the M20 and the surrounding road network.

Aycliffe resident Nikki Bushell told BBC Radio Kent that she “did not hold much hope” for the initiative. She said: “I don't think you can ever get rid of the traffic flow, even getting more space down the port it might probably take more time to process lorries to get them through.” Bannister said he acknowledged scepticism from residents including Bushell. He said: “We haven't always had a strong track record [in efforts to ease disruption], so it's important that we show this new scheme can make a meaningful difference.” He added: “We have been working on this project for four years and believe motorists will begin to see the benefits from 2028.” He said: “We are confident this is a fundamental intervention that will make a real difference.”

Helen Whately, MP for Faversham and Mid Kent, attended the site on Friday.