France Halts New EU Border Checks at Dover to Clear Holidaymakers' Queues
French border officials have suspended the implementation of new European Union border checks at the Port of Dover following substantial delays experienced by holidaymakers on Saturday. The port acknowledged the “challenging situation” and stated that the suspension was enacted to mitigate extensive queues and reduce traffic congestion on approach roads.
May Bank Holiday Sees Disruption
The May bank holiday period serves as a critical test for the new EU border protocols, which necessitate longer processing times. Despite the upcoming full implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) requiring fingerprint and facial recognition, French authorities at Dover were already creating traveller profiles, extending border check durations.
Processing times within the port fluctuated significantly throughout Saturday morning, with travellers reporting “congested” routes to reach check-in. In response to the build-up, traffic exiting the port is being rerouted exclusively onto the A2.
Passengers missing their scheduled ferry crossings due to the prolonged wait times will be permitted to board the subsequent available service, according to port officials.
Heatwave Adds Further Complications
The travel disruption coincides with an unusually hot May bank holiday across the UK. Temperatures are anticipated to remain high, following Friday's recording of 28.4C at Heathrow, Cranwell, and Cambridge. Forecasts indicate highs in the upper 20s Celsius for many regions, with some areas potentially reaching low 30s Celsius next week. Amber heat health alerts are in effect for parts of England, as temperatures are expected to climb above 30C over the weekend, approaching the May record of 32.8C.
