France and the UK have agreed to increase staffing at border controls in a bid to prevent a repeat of the travel chaos that hit Channel ports last summer. The move follows talks between UK Home Secretary and French Interior Minister, who pledged to deploy more officers at Dover, Eurotunnel, and Eurostar terminals.
Staffing boost at key border points
Under the agreement, French border police will increase personnel at the Port of Dover and the Eurotunnel terminal in Folkestone, while UK Border Force will bolster resources at French ports. The aim is to reduce waiting times and avoid the miles-long queues seen in 2025, when some passengers waited up to 12 hours.
According to the Home Office, the additional staff will be in place from late July through August, the peak summer travel period. The exact number of extra officers has not been disclosed, but the government said it represents a "significant increase" on previous years.
Last year's disruption
Last summer, travel disruption at the Channel ports was blamed on a combination of staff shortages, increased post-Brexit checks, and a surge in demand. The queues caused widespread frustration and led to calls for better contingency planning.
"We are determined to ensure that families do not face the same disruption this year," said the UK Home Secretary. "This joint effort with France will help keep traffic flowing smoothly."
Broader cooperation
The staffing boost is part of a wider agreement to improve cross-border cooperation. Both countries have also committed to sharing real-time data on traffic flows and to launching a joint communications campaign to advise travelers on peak times and alternative routes.
French Interior Minister said: "Our cooperation is essential to guarantee fluidity at the border while maintaining security. These measures will allow us to better manage passenger flows."
Industry reaction
Travel industry groups welcomed the announcement but cautioned that more long-term solutions are needed. The Port of Dover said it was "encouraged" by the plans, while the RAC urged drivers to plan ahead and check for updates.
Last year's disruption cost the UK economy an estimated £100 million in lost tourism and trade, according to a report by the travel association ABTA.
