Dover port shuts access to passengers as masked protesters 'block roads'

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The Port of Dover is facing major disruption after masked protesters have blocked access to the port, with passengers being warned they may miss their ferries.

Kent Police confirmed that it was "aware" of the protest and "engaging with protesters."

In a statement the port said: "The Port of Dover can confirm there is a ongoing public order incident happening around the town of Dover.

“This is affecting all routes in and out the port and the town. We are in contact with Kent Police to understand the situation.

“This situation is impacting our local community and our customers, so of course we are hoping for a swift resolution.”

In a statement on X, Kent Police said: “We are aware of a protest currently taking place at the Port of Dover. Officers are in attendance and engaging with protesters.”

Shipping company DFDS said: “We are aware of the current traffic disruption affecting access to the port.

“Rest assured we will accommodate you onto the next departure once you arrive.”

P&O Ferries said its sailings are “still going ahead as scheduled”, adding that those who miss their departure will be offered the next available crossing.

One holidaymaker told The Sun about how they were unable to get their ferry to France as the group stopped their coach.

They said: "We’re on a coach in Dover being stopped from getting to our ferry over to France by protesters.

“A couple of them got hit by a car driving through them. They’re all in black and wearing masks.”

Mike Tapp, the Labour MP for Dover and Deal, criticised what he described as “idiots coming to Dover to cause disruption”.

In a post on Facebook, he said: “Park run cancelled and port access disrupted.

“I am fed up with idiots coming to Dover to cause disruption. I bet if you asked any one of those ‘protesters’ they wouldn’t know small boat crossing are down by 40% and we are working hard to fix the mess.

National Highways confirmed that the A20 was closed due to the protesters.

In a statement the organisation said: "A20 both directions in Kent between A256 (York Street) & A2 (Jubilee Way).

“Traffic is currently stopped due to protest activity at Dover Port.

“Current delays of up to 30 minutes on the approach, with 4 miles of congestion.”