Dover’s roads are set to become clogged with freight and tourist traffic over the Christmas period, the authorities have warned.

The Port of Dover, Highways England, Kent Police, and Kent County Council have advised the district’s road users to consider alternative routes.

The M20, A20 and M2, A2 are the routes typically congested when the port experiences busy times.

The B2011, A256 or A258 have been earmarked as clearer routes and those using them will avoid the queues.

Highways England will install extra signs along the A256, A258 and at Whitfield roundabout.

In a statement, it said: “As well as extra holiday and freight traffic, throughout this period, the Port of Dover and security services will continue to follow UK and French government requirements to deliver heightened security checks to keep the travelling public safe following the recent attacks in Paris.”