by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

Ferry operators are warning there could be severe congestion on the A20 approach to Dover because of problems at Folkestone.

The ferry companies, together with the port authorities, had appealed to the government and Kent Highways to take immediate action to repair the road at the Roundhill tunnels where both carriageways are reduced to one lane.

Dover Harbour Board, P&O Ferries, DFDS Seaways and SeaFrance, wanted repair work to be carried out before the main summer holiday period which starts this weekend.

Some plates on the viaduct section of the road need replacing, but the Highways Agency has said this may not be possible for several months.

Chris Newey, director of passenger services on the English Channel for DFDS Seaways, said they were very disappointed that nothing had been done.

"The forthcoming week is the busiest of the year and we want to make sure that families can get away on their summer holiday, without the potential stress of missing their ferry crossing," he said.

"With our ferries at full capacity we will struggle to accommodate people on a later crossing if they are delayed by the roadworks.

"We advise passengers to add at least an additional hour to their travelling time to take into accoun t the congested roads around the Roundhill tunnels, or alternatively, to use the M2/A2 route to Dover."