A dramatic crash on Easter Sunday night left a car embedded in the railings of Dover’s Marine Parade promenade, sparking concern among residents and calls for action over ongoing vehicle-related disturbances in the area.
The incident occurred just after 10pm on April 20, with one local resident describing hearing “two very loud bangs” before seeing the wreckage on the popular seafront stretch. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where photos show the car jammed into the promenade railings, with debris scattered both on the pavement and below on the beach.
Miraculous Escape from Serious Injury
Kent Police confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash. South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) attended and treated the driver for minor injuries at the scene.
“Kent Police was made aware of a one-vehicle collision on Marine Parade, Dover, at around 10pm on Sunday 20 April 2025,” a police spokesperson told KentLive.
“Officers attended and temporary railings were put in place once the vehicle had been recovered, and debris was cleared from the beach.”
‘An Accident Waiting to Happen’
Residents living along the seafront say they have long warned that such an incident was inevitable, citing repeated issues with speeding vehicles, revving engines, loud music, and antisocial gatherings—especially during late hours.
“We were in at the time and heard two very loud bangs, then a lot of people running on the promenade,” said one witness. “It’s been an accident waiting to happen.”
Another resident described the area as a magnet for disruptive behaviour:
“It’s been a problem for a long time—motorbikes driving on one wheel, cars speeding, people watching, loud music and drones. Last night it was busy until 11pm.”
Though police confirmed there had been no recent reports of vehicle-related antisocial behaviour, they urged residents to report any such incidents directly when they occur.
Ongoing Concerns and Calls for Action
The stretch of Marine Parade near The Gateway has seen mounting complaints from locals over late-night gatherings, with calls for increased police patrols and potential safety improvements to prevent future accidents.
Fortunately, in this case, the promenade’s sturdy railings stopped the car from plunging down the embankment onto the beach. Temporary barriers have since been installed while repairs are made.
Residents are encouraged to report antisocial behaviour via 101 or the Kent Police website.
