The boss of the largest port in Kent has signalled the need for a Brexit deal which keeps trade flowing between the UK and EU after revealing record freight traffic figures.

The Port of Dover handled more than 2.6 million lorries last year, up nearly 10,000 on 2016 and the fifth straight year when it has broken its record.

As Europe’s busiest ferry port, it handles up to 17% of the UK’s entire trade in goods, thought to be worth up to £122 billion annually.

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Chief executive Tim Waggot said it is proof that Dover continues to be the port of choice for hauliers travelling to and from Europe – the UK’s largest trading partner.

He said: “We offer supply chains the shortest sea crossing between the UK and the Continent and, as such, will continue to be the most efficient strategic choice for hauliers.

“The recent year-on-year increases in freight traffic through the port and continued growth projections further highlight that this key trade route connecting Ireland, the UK and the rest of Europe is vital to the UK’s economic prosperity as well as the rest of the EU.

“With Brexit talks about to move on to trade, it is essential that all sides commit to the right solution to ensure fluidity at Dover and the wider trade corridor along with a more resilient strategic road network to support it. Jobs and livelihoods depend on it.”

Trade talks between the UK and EU are not expected to start until next month.

Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke tweeted: "This underlines why it's vital we are ready on day one of Brexit to ensure traffic continues to flow freely - investment at the Dover frontline must be a priority."

The Freight Transport Association – one of the UK’s largest trades associations, which is based in Tunbridge Wells – echoed Mr Waggott’s calls on post-Brexit trade requirements.

Its deputy chief executive James Hookham said: “The ease with which vehicles and their loads can pass through Dover and the French ports will be a big test of the post-Brexit arrangement.

“With roll-on roll-off traffic growing at the current rates, getting clarification on how any future customs procedures at Dover and elsewhere will work is the top priority for European logistics and supply chain managers in 2018.”

"With Brexit talks about to move on to trade, it is essential that all sides commit to the right solution to ensure fluidity at Dover and the wider trade corridor along with a more resilient strategic road network to support it..." - Tim Waggott, Port of Dover

Anastassia Beliakova, head of trade policy at British Chambers of Commerce, agreed.

She said: “It is great news that the Port of Dover is setting records, demonstrating its importance as a route for trade with Europe.

“It is therefore now important to ensure that ports and businesses all across the UK get clarity as our trading relationship with the EU changes.

“The UK Government must ensure to maintain customs cooperation with the EU, minimise customs administration at the border, as well as commit to infrastructure projects that facilitate the flow of goods to and from Europe.”

Jean-Marc Puissesseau, president-general manager of Port Boulogne Calais, added: “Like the Port of Dover, the Port of Calais is expecting to confirm record freight traffic this year, with two million heavy goods vehicles passing through in 2017.

“Forecast growth in freight traffic on both sides of the Channel in the coming years proves that the Calais / Dover route, the shortest and most economical route, remains a strategic choice for the transport and logistics industry.

“It is essential for the Port of Calais and its hinterland that this traffic flow is maintained and that the ongoing discussions between Europe and Great Britain over Brexit ensure the route’s durability.”