Key road scheme to maximise Dover regeneration projects

Work on a key road scheme in Dover is due to start on 20th February. The work involves junction improvements at the Prince of Wales and Duke of York roundabouts on the A20, along with improved access to Union Street.

The junctions on the A20 at the Prince of Wales and York Street roundabouts will become traffic light controlled by a MOVA Smart system which is designed to monitor, regulate and ultimately improve traffic flows. The traffic light control system for Woolcomber Street will also be upgraded to deliver better access to the Port and support wider town regeneration.

The first junction improvement will be to the Prince of Wales Roundabout and Union Street. Following a period for site set-up, these improvements will commence on 20th February and will finish during December 2016.

Highlighted as one of the key investment schemes by the Government in unlocking Britain's economic potential, the A20 junction improvement works are designed to maximise the potential of Dover's key regeneration projects including the port's Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) scheme and the district council's St James development.

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said: "These works are an important part of our regeneration and transport plans. We've been working closely with the Port of Dover, Highways England, and contractors on a scheme backed by central Government to improve access and maximise the opportunity to better connect the Western Docks and town centre regeneration opportunities that are now getting underway."

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover, added: "These are exciting times as we move forward in making Dover the place we all want it to be, a place to invest in and a fantastic destination. Improving access and connectivity for these developments will ensure they deliver maximum long-term economic benefit to Dover."

Extensive traffic management modelling has been undertaken with an expert traffic management consultancy to evaluate the potential impacts of the works, the results showing traffic flows as working well, including with Dover TAP (Traffic Assessment Project), which was factored into the modelling. This includes where the traffic is merging into one lane. Procedures will also be in place to monitor traffic flows and to quickly clear breakdowns. Snargate Street entrances will remain open throughout the works to enable access for Dover businesses and the community.

Highways England Asset Manager for Kent, Kevin Bown said: "The improvements to the A20 will unlock the potential for future growth and boost the economy. We are working with the Port of Dover and all involved to ensure that any disruption to drivers and the local community is minimised during construction."

All partners thank the public for their patience and understanding whilst this key regeneration-enabling project is delivered for Dover.