Known as the 'Gateway to Europe', the Port of Dover is a key hub for travel and trade. Handling £144 billion worth of trade and facilitating 33% of the commerce between the UK and the EU, it is committed to becoming the most seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled facility of its kind in the country. However, the port is experiencing a period of change as it adapts to a digital future and responds to a changing climate. 

Combining port and multi-disciplinary masterplanning expertise with economic and business understanding, Arup developed a holistic masterplan that supports the port’s long-term commercial growth. We began with a baseline analysis and developed foresight scenarios to inform the design of potential interventions and evaluate their outcomes. This was followed by a detailed commercial strategy aimed at attracting investment. The project finalised with the development of a step-by-step implementation plan.

With a focus on technology, resilience and social value, the masterplan strengthens the port’s role as a leading gateway for trade and travel in the country. Embedding data and sustainability, it provides alternative design options to ensure the port’s operational efficiency and adaptability to upcoming challenges. As a vital economic hub for the region, the upgraded port will include a new piece of public realm, supporting local regeneration plans.     

Designing an adaptable port for an unpredictable future

Building on previous insights, we carried out an initial study to understand the port’s context, including potential stressors and disruptors such as geo-politics, climate, policy, economy and market trends. Informed by site visits, workshops and engagement with stakeholders, the analysis focused on sustainability and resilience, engineering, urban design and quality of place, while defining the commercial and market context.

From strengths and opportunities to challenges and limitations, the insights were crucial to understanding the key parameters influencing the development of the masterplan and how to address them. For instance, external factors such as rising carbon pricing and emission tariffs – as well as increased travel, trade competition and migration – have all impacted the port’s design.  

We grouped these trends into three plausible scenarios, using visual tools to plan and inform different layouts based on the desired outcomes. For the Eastern docks, we provided alternatives focused on expansion, traffic flow or digitalisation. For the Western docks, these were centred around tourism, trade or a combination of both. These visual aids also covered various arrangements to adapt the port to future scenarios and potential disruptors, such as the creation of an unaccompanied cargo terminal or a significant traffic growth.  

Visualisation image of cruises docked at the Eastern docks on a bright day

Visualisation of ferries at the Eastern docks. Our proposal will boost growth in the ferry, cargo and cruise businesses by making the best operational use of the land that extends directly from the water edge.

Driving commercial growth through improved customer experience

Our strategy considered the entire port – from ferry, cruise and cargo to marina and commercial property operations – creating specific proposals for the needs of each business. This individual approach was essential as some areas required operational improvements and others were driven by the potential for new commercial interests. While the redesign of the Eastern docks focused on optimising daily operations, such as outbound traffic controls and ferry scheduling, the works on the Western docks aimed to boost tourism and trade.

Our proposal will boost growth in the ferry, cargo and cruise businesses by making the best operational use of the land that extends directly from the water edge. This will allow the modernisation of its current infrastructure and facilities, providing improved amenities and services while allowing flexibility in the use of land and berths. To future proof the port against external shocks, we provided alternatives to adapt its structure to new circumstances, market evolution and changes in the operating environment, such as economic trends or climate change. 

Unlocking the full potential of data, our digitalisation strategy identified opportunities to integrate digital and data-driven solutions into the port’s operations. For example, operators will be able to share real-time traffic data with customers, helping them plan their arrival more efficiently. They will also benefit from seamless customs controls, less congestion and shorter waiting times at check-in points, leading to better and faster journeys. From improved traffic flow to more efficient operations, the masterplan will enhance user experience while ensuring the port continues to meet the needs of users and businesses for generations to come.

Our masterplan was carefully designed to minimise the impact on the environment. To help achieve net zero targets and adapt to climate change, decarbonisation and resilience were integral to every element of the design. Our plan includes different strategies such as the electrification of ferries, the installation of on-site renewables and the re-use of existing infrastructure. In addition, it evaluates different options for more sustainable transport connections with the rest of the country.  

Visualisation of the entrance of the Western docks with people walking in front

Visualisation of people entering the port through the Western docks. The upgraded waterfront will accommodate a commercial quarter, with hospitality and recreational facilities.

Visualisation of the waterfront at Port of Dover, with people walking and children playing

Visualisation of the waterfront. Green spaces will provide spaces for people to enjoy the outdoors, creating areas for social interaction.

Co-creating to meet business needs and attract investment

From senior management to operational teams, we engaged with members across all levels within Dover Harbour Board to develop a robust plan. We hosted multiple workshops with internal groups, using the outcomes to inform the final masterplan. As the port will have a direct impact outside the organisation, external stakeholders, such as the Port User Group and the Port Community Forum, were consulted throughout the process. By doing this, we ensured the new port will meet future operational requirements, while satisfying the needs of users and surrounding communities.  

The insights not only allowed us to create a tailored strategy, but also enabled us to better evaluate its potential impact. Bringing these results together, the value framework offered a detailed overview of the potential economic, financial, environment and social outcomes. This analysis will enable Dover Harbour Board to build an evidence-based business proposal and attract private investors. By creating a strategy that targets wider value, we looked to unlock further investment and open-up partnerships and co-funding opportunities. 

An impressive piece of work from the whole team at Arup

Doug Bannister

CEO, Dover Harbour Board

Realising the port’s potential to unlock social and economic benefits

Reinforcing its key role in the national economy, the masterplan is expected to boost annual trade up to 20%, which equates to £173 billion in value. This increase in commerce will stimulate local business growth, opening up employment opportunities within the region. Boosting the local economy even further, the new port will strengthen Dover’s tourist offer by increasing its ability to attract visitors. People will have access to renewed outdoor spaces and amenities while enjoying stunning views of the White Cliffs of Dover. 

To bring wider benefits to local residents, our approach considered the needs of the community. Designed to create a sense of place for locals, the masterplan unlocks opportunities to make the most out of its renewed facilities and scenic location. The upgraded waterfront will accommodate a commercial quarter, with hospitality and recreational facilities, as well as residential buildings. Green spaces will provide spaces for people to enjoy the outdoors, creating areas for social interaction. 

Partners & collaborators

Egis / Gerald Eve / PCLP