New traffic management measures show their worth 0 comments / Category : Press Release The Port utilised the full extent of the new traffic management measures on the A20 between Dover and Folkestone, preventing several miles of freight vehicles from creating gridlock in Dover. The heavy seas caused longer berthing times for ferries that required the assistance of the Port’s trusted tugs to help them safely berth. The perfect storm of exceptionally high May winds plus operational issues at Eurotunnel resulted in a very unusual situation for the time of year. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, thinks 6th May was a freak combination of events but also shows the value of the new traffic measures. “This is the second time this year we have had to deal with the fallout from operational problems with Eurotunnel but since the new traffic management measures were instigated by Highways England in partnership with the Port of Dover, Dover District Council, Kent Police and our community, it has proved decisive in helping to keep the town clear of queuing freight vehicles. “The new measures were tested to the limit with high traffic volumes combining with freak weather and operational problems at Eurotunnel. “Despite some early teething issues, our community has said to us that the new measures are keeping Dover clear. Wednesday was challenging, but we have already seen the benefits of working together on traffic solutions. The abnormal pressures put on the new system during what was an unusual situation have really highlighted its worth in helping to keep Dover, the Port and the UK economy moving.” ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00)
Workshop shows Port and community pulling in same direction 0 comments / Category : Press Release Reflecting how the Port and its community are pulling in the same direction, the well-attended event focused on how the community wants to see Dover as a magnet for investment and how the Port can support that vision by attracting inward investment through DWDR. In a positively charged room, the Port was delighted to welcome many new faces, showing how the project is gaining interest and momentum. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “We are starting to see people come towards us as a positive force for investment, regeneration and job creation in Dover. The message is out that we are delivering for Dover and our shared vision is one that is going to become a reality. “The Port is becoming a magnet, drawing its community towards it as we work to create the Port of the future that in turn will help support the regeneration of Dover. Our shared belief and desire to succeed is becoming a reality alongside the delivery of the project itself. A great message for Dover!” The next opportunity to share in the vision and progress being made on DWDR will be on Monday 18th May at the Port’s public Annual Consultative Meeting being held at Cruise Terminal 1. Doors open at 5pm. ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00)
Port gets real over delivering catalyst for Dover’s regeneration 0 comments / Category : Press Release It is this success which is enabling Europe’s busiest ferry port, often described as a barometer of the UK economy, to achieve its flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) project that will protect the long term capacity of the Port and act as a catalyst for regeneration in the famous port town of Dover. The Port is also making rapid use of new powers recently acquired by the trust port to enter into joint ventures and other financial arrangements to deliver such major projects in a way that brings the future forward as rapidly as possible. As further evidence of its’ delivery for Dover, the Port has created a new regeneration division, Dover Waterfront Limited which will ensure a strong and dedicated focus on waterfront development whilst the Port continues to deliver the commercial aims of the DWDR vision alongside the existing busy ferry, cruise, cargo and marina operations. The new company will work with partners to realise the regeneration opportunities arising from the expansion of the Western Docks. The Port is delighted to announce that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with a leading real estate partner, Bride Hall, to take forward the key waterfront development opportunities. Bride Hall will bring their expertise and work closely with Dover Waterfront Limited and other partners in Dover to develop a viable scheme that is complementary to other exciting projects in the area. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, says: “Today’s announcement shows the continuing momentum behind DWDR and how the Port is utilising its ongoing success both for the benefit of the UK economy and for the wider regeneration of Dover. Working together with a major real estate partner such as Bride Hall, who have a great track record of delivering top quality developments throughout the UK, is another sign of how we are transforming a premier UK port for the benefit of the nation, the tourism economy and our community all at the same time. Our message is simple. This is really happening and we are moving forward on turning our shared vision into reality.” Nick Desmond, managing director of Bride Hall Real Estate Partners, says “The Port of Dover regeneration project reflects one of the most exciting opportunities in the UK to make a significant difference to a strategically important location. With our experience in delivering high quality mixed use development we share our partners vision and enthusiasm for the wider region. We will be using the existing momentum to build demand for Dover amongst key brands and operators in order to deliver an integrated solution that benefits national and local businesses, residents and visitors alike.” Nadeem Aziz, Chief Executive, Dover District Council, says: “This is an exciting announcement for Dover and we will be working together with the Port’s new waterfront regeneration arm and Bride Hall to ensure that all of our plans for the regeneration of Dover are coherent, joined up and offer the best opportunity to make a once in several generations difference to our community and Dover as a thriving destination.” ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs Contact for Port of Dover: Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) or communications@doverport.co.uk Contact details for Bride Hall Real Estate Partners: Nick Desmond nick.desmond@bride-hall.co.uk
Ongoing transformation of the Port of Dover keeps the UK economy moving 0 comments / Category : Press Release The familiar route into the Port is closing in readiness for demolition, representing a key point in the TMI project that is transforming Eastern Docks ferry terminal. The OVD will be close at 11:30hrs on Friday (24 April) with traffic being moved to the ground route, which will be suitably signposted. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive for the Port of Dover says: “Whilst we keep Dover, the Port and the UK economy moving, we are also working hard to ensure that the Port will have additional capacity to handle growing freight volumes. This is why we made a conscious decision to expedite the works and put extra resources to enable earlier completion. Our customers, port users and the community will see the re-routing of traffic flows, new variable messaging services and lane control within the Port, thereby reducing congestion on the external road network.” TMI is part of an £85 million upgrade programme focused on the Eastern Docks, which is being delivered at the same time the Port has recently committed to investing up to £120 million in phase one of the Dover Western Docks Revival project. Together, such investments are transforming the Port for the benefit of its customers and community. ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) Notes to Editors: The Port handles 13 million passengers, 2.4 million freight vehicles and £100 billion of UK/Economy trade. The Port supports 22,000 jobs, many of which are in the local community. It has a shared vision to protect and enhance short and long term port capacity for the nation whilst delivering the catalyst for the regeneration of Dover. All freight customers are advised to use the M20 & A20 route towards the Port. All tourist customers are advised to use the M2 & A2 route when possible towards the Port. Further details on TMI can be found at http://www.doverport.co.uk/about/port-development/
Push the boat out and join us for Dover Marina Open Day 0 comments / Category : Press Release There is no reason not to come along and explore what Dover’s waterfront has to offer. Taking place on the Crosswall Quay from 10.00am until 5:00pm, the day will included free entry and parking for all those wanting to explore Dover’s seafront. In partnership with the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club (RCPYC) and international yacht brokers Clarke & Carter, the day will bring together the local sailing community and industry experts for a day of family filled-fun with water displays, exhibitions and local food stalls. Firefox fishing charters will be offering trips around the harbour, and there will be the opportunity for the public to paddle the Bronze Age Boat replica around the Wellington Dock. Also, for the boat-spotter in you, the RNLI will have their Lifeboat “Station Open day” with its shop and the lifeboat open to visitors. The RNLI will also be offering free lifejacket checks. For the first time ever, working with Ramora UK, the Port of Dover has organised a Flare Amnesty offering a free-flare disposal service on the day (between 11am and 2pm). The disposal of out-of-date flares is a growing problem for boat owners who face severe penalties if they fail to follow the correct procedures. Barbara Buczek, General Manager – Business Development says: “This is a great day that gives the sailing and Dover community an opportunity to enjoy our fantastic marina, which is a very active and valued part of the Port. Such events are also a great way of attracting people from all over the UK and showcase Dover as a vibrant sailing location.” ENDS Issued by Port of Dover Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) Notes to Editors Port of Dover’s main stand this year will feature vessel traffic system (VTS) officers, the environmental team and a Port of Dover Neighbourhood Policing Unit will be on hand to answer any questions. Exhibitors will include: B9 Fire, Boat 1550 BC, Clarke & Carter, GJW Direct, English Braids, Firefox Fishing Charters, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Morgan Marine, Premium Life Rafts, Rob Bingham Yacht Surveys, Ross Yacht Services, Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club and SSL Marine. There will be a prize draw for a chance to win Standard Horizon Marine explorer radio with GPS donated by Clarke and Carter. The open day forms part of the Port of Dover’s participation in the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) Push the Boat Out, which offers additional training, cruising and social opportunities throughout the year and is also in association with the British Marine Federation (BMF) ‘On the water’ campaign.
Land and Sea Exhibition brings Port and community together to celebrate a shared maritime heritage 0 comments / Category : Press Release The exhibition, which comprises paintings and etchings of Dover harbour throughout the ages will run through the summer and be a new addition to the popular Port of Dover Community Regatta on 25th July 2015, with a finale weekend in September. Bernard Sealy, RCPYC Commodore, welcomed guests to the newly refurbished Lord Nelson Suite at the Club with the officially opening presided over by George Jenkins OBE, Chairman of Dover Harbour Board. During the official opening, guests enjoyed poetry and music with readings from locally published author Jo Field and Trisha Peak, interspersed with songs sung by Chrissie Grimsdale accompanied by guitarist Steve Cleare. Clare Smith and Joanna Jones from DAD then introduced artist Helen Lindon who led an exploration of the Port’s paintings. Bernard Sealy, Commodore of the Yacht Club, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many guests and visitors throughout the weekend to the club to see some of the wonderful historic paintings from the Port of Dover’s collection. The watercolour workshops run by DAD were a huge success resulting in some stunning art, a book of which can also be seen at the exhibition. We look forward to welcoming more visitors throughout the following months in order to show how by working in true partnership with the Port, as well as the support of others, we can all, through art, enjoy the rich history of this fascinating place. “ Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “It is a pleasure to partner with the RCPYC in making such unique works of art available for our community to view. Through the exhibition, we are creating a way in which we can celebrate and enjoy a shared maritime heritage together. I hope that access to these artworks will give great pleasure and inspiration to those yet to enjoy them.” Joanna Jones, DAD, said: “With so much diverse talent, abilities and approaches it was a really exciting workshop and I am once again delighted by the Port’s enthusiasm in working with us to develop Dover’s cultural offering. All of the watercolour workshop participants donated one or two works for inclusion in a Land & Sea project commemorative book left with the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club in the Lord Nelson Suite to be enjoyed by visitors during the exhibition.” The exhibition forms part of the RCPYC’s Landscape Heritage Art Exhibition “Land and Sea” project and is funded through an Up on the Downs Landscape Heritage Grant. It also forms part of Culture Kent 2015. ENDS Issued by Port of Dover on 01304 240400 (ext 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) Notes to Editors Images to follow and will be found on the Port of Dover website. PORTrait – The exhibition is the latest contribution from the Port to its PORTrait initiative, which is focused on nurturing a shared cultural expression of Dover through the Arts. For details about Up on the Downs, please visit http://uponthedowns.org.uk/Grants/Grants.aspx To view photographs from the workshops, please visit http://www.dadonline.eu/updates/land-sea-watercolour-workshop/
HRH The Princess Royal sees a shared maritime vision in action 0 comments / Category : Press Release In order to get a nautical perspective on what Dover’s port and harbour have to offer and the vibrant sailing activities that take place, The Princess Royal was taken for a special tour in the harbour on board the Port’s harbour patrol launch ‘Dovorian’. The Princess Royal was received by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Viscount De L’Isle MBE, who presented George Jenkins OBE, Chairman of Dover Harbour Board and Tim Waggott, its Chief Executive along with Admiral The Lord Boyce KG GCB OBE, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, who is President and a great supporter of the RCPYC. Lord Boyce then presented Sarah Treseder, Chief Executive of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), together with Bernard Sealy, Commodore of the RCPYC and its Vice-Commodore Richard Hart. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “It was a fantastic privilege to explain to The Princess Royal how the Port and the Yacht Club are working brilliantly together in a way that enables a full yachting programme and related activities to run successfully alongside a major international port.” Bernard Sealy, Commodore, RCPYC, said: “It is a proud moment for our famous club and equally recognition of the progress that Dover is once again making not only as a yachting centre but as destination rather than a place where people pass through.” On returning to the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club, formed in 1872, The Princess Royal was shown historic archive material and had the exciting future plans for the Port explained to her, including those that will benefit partners such as the RCPYC and the wider community with the prospect of major waterfront development and regeneration. Bernard Sealy said: “Today we have shown what we have done, what we are doing and importantly what we are trying to achieve by working together with the Port and a host of other organisations towards a common vision.” Tim Waggott explained: “Such a rich tapestry of maritime experience in Dover already makes it a fascinating destination to explore. With our shared vision for major waterfront regeneration as part of our Dover Western Docks Revival project, The Princess Royal has also now seen the wonderful future being created in Dover that will result in an even more vibrant maritime community.” The Princess Royal met RCPYC members in the Lord Nelson Suite overlooking Dover harbour, as well as representatives from a variety of other organisations, both at home and abroad, including Dover Museum, Dover and Deal Sea Cadets, Dover Bronze Age Boat Trust, the Cinque Port Pirates Sailing Club, Dover Rowing Club, Dover RNLI, Dover Coastguard, and Dover Sea Sports Centre, once more reflecting the rich maritime heritage in Dover. ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) Images show: Port of Dover Chairman, George Jenkins, Port of Dover Chief Executive, Tim Waggott and HRH The Princess Royal discussing the Dover Western Docks Revival plans The Harbour Patrol Launch, the Dovorian, with HRH The Princess Royal on board, with Harbour House in the background The Harbour Patrol Launch, the Dovorian, with HRH The Princess Royal on board, with the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club in the background Cinque Ports one features The Lord Warden presenting HRH with the Cinque Ports Flag. Also in the pic are Sue Nicholas, Bishop of Dover and Bernard Sealy, Commodore of the RCPYC
Assessment of new A20 traffic management measures – what to expect 0 comments / Category : Press Release A week into the assessment and following an implementation of the measures at the weekend, the Port thought it would be helpful to set out some further explanation as to what to expect when heading to Dover on the A20. How it works At busy times, if the Port of Dover is nearing capacity for check in, its operations staff will initiate new traffic lights on the A20 just outside of Dover to hold freight and/or tourist vehicles whilst space becomes available within the Port to accommodate them. The traffic is then released in batches to match the space available and therefore keep local traffic and Dover moving. There is currently a 40mph speed limit from the Western Heights roundabout through Dover and this has been extended to Roundhill Tunnel at Folkestone in order to promote safety for the duration of the assessment. The traffic signals will be in use in periods roughly three days per week and incorporate a vehicle number plate recognition system so that only freight vehicles that have been through the signals are accepted by the Port. Cars, light vehicles and coaches heading for Dover Town Centre will still be able to use the A20. Lane 2 is available exclusively for their use when the traffic signals are in operation, or they can use the B2011. Local freight vehicles do not have to go through the A20 signals if that would not be their natural route. Freight vehicles that have passed through the signals and are parking at MOTIS in the Western Docks do not then have to go back through the signals before heading to the ferry terminal. These will be given a date stamped card. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, says: “We will continue to work closely with our partners in order to address any teething issues and deliver the long term solution that is required for our customers and community.” The Port would like to thank its customers and community for their patience and understanding whilst the assessment is carried out. ENDS Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00) Notes to Editors The Port handles 13 million passengers, 2.4 million freight vehicles and £100 billion of UK/Economy trade. The Port supports 22,000 jobs, many of which are in the local community. It has a shared vision to protect and enhance short and long term port capacity for the nation whilst delivering the catalyst for the regeneration of Dover. All freight customers are advised to use the M20 & A20 route towards the Port. All tourist customers are advised to use the M2 & A2 route when possible towards the Port.
Port’s community spirit sails into action 0 comments / Category : Press Release Local youth charity Cinque Ports Pirates was chosen as the beneficiary of the money raised during the 2014 Regatta from the Port of Dover-sponsored Dover Port Dash tournament. An RS Tera type boat has now been purchased and was officially named yesterday as ‘Community Spirit’, one of three it has bought thanks to various benefactors. Having been asked by the charity to name the boat, the Port ran a staff competition and the winning entry came from Senior Systems Engineer, Karl Bowman and Port of Dover Police officer, Martin Dadd. Attending the official naming ceremony, Barbara Buczek, General Manager – Business Development, says: “The name chosen by Port staff was Community Spirit, reflecting how the Port is playing its part at the heart of the community. Whilst we keep Dover, the Port and the UK economy moving, we are also working together with local good causes to enable young people to actively enjoy the recreational and educational benefits of the Port.” Karen Amber, Cinque Ports Pirates, says: “The money raised has brought the local community and the Port closer together in providing more opportunities for local young people to experience the enjoyment of sailing. Cinque Port Pirates is so closely connected with the harbour, it is fitting that Port of Dover staff who work here every day, had their input into naming ‘Community Spirit’. ENDS Notes to Editor: Photo 1 includes Karl Bowman and Cinque Ports Pirates with Community Spirit; Photo 2 includes Ken Dupuy and Cinque Ports Pirates with Tally Ho!; and Photo 3 includes Community Spirit sailing in Dover harbour The Cinque Ports Pirates is a youth charity where children pay a membership of just £15 a year and £6 a session. The Pirates are based in both Dover and Folkestone, and sail every Saturday and Sunday morning in Dover Harbour and once per month on a Saturday at Folkestone. Visit www.cinqueportspiratessailingclub.co.uk for more information. The other two boats bought by the charity – Tally Ho! and Leo – were purchased with money donated by Ken Dupuy and the Dover Lions Club. The boats will be used in Dover, competitions around the country and at an international competition in July in Holland – the RS Tera World Championships. This year’s Port of Dover Community Regatta will take place on Saturday, 25 July 2015. Back by popular demand will be the ‘Dover Port Dash’ tournament, which will see teams race across the harbour in ‘Thames Cutters’ in a bid to raise money for two local charities, the RNLI and a community-elected charity, soon to be revealed.For more information, visithttp://www.doverport.co.uk/about/news/more-sparkle-promised-at-this-years-port-of-dove/12955/ Issued by Port of Dover on 01304 240400 (ext 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00)
Port of Dover launches new travel news twitter account for customers and community 0 comments / Category : Press Release The Port of Dover’s new twitter account (@PoD_travelnews) is dedicated to providing weather and traffic information in order to keep customers up to date with the very latest travel and weather information at Europe’s busiest ferry port. Over Easter this year, 225,000 passengers are expected to use the Port of Dover as they head off for their well-earned break. By joining the Port of Dover’s dedicated travel news service, they can make sure they are aware of the latest information before and during their journeys. Barbara Buczek, General Manager – Business Development, says: “We are committed to improving customer service and keeping our community informed with the latest traffic and travel situation. This is another example of how we are playing our part to keep Dover, Port and UK economy moving.” ENDS Notes to Editors The Port handles 13 million passengers, 2.4 million freight vehicles and £100 billion of UK/European trade. Customers are advised to contact their chosen ferry operator before travelling and consult thePort of Dover website for the latest information.
